Viral Kano Horse Race Video Sparks Death Rumours After Fallen Riders Are Trampled in Chaotic Stampede

A disturbing video from an informal horse-riding event in Kano State has gone viral, showing fallen riders being trampled by galloping horses as desperate spectators scramble to stop the animals, triggering widespread claims on social media that two people died in the incident.

The footage, which began circulating widely on X and other social media platforms over the weekend, captures a chaotic scene believed to have occurred on or around Saturday, July 25, 2026, during what appears to be an unofficial horse race or traditional riding display, commonly known as “kilisa” in northern Nigeria.

In the video, at least two riders are seen lying on the ground after apparently falling from their horses. Moments later, other horses continue charging through the area as frantic onlookers rush onto the track, waving their arms, grabbing reins and attempting to stop the animals before they reach the fallen riders.

Despite the crowd’s efforts, some of the horses appear to run over the victims, prompting panic among spectators.

The footage has fuelled widespread speculation online, with numerous social media users claiming that two riders lost their lives after being trampled during the incident.

Several posts shared nearly identical captions, alleging that onlookers desperately tried to halt the remaining horses but were unable to prevent them from trampling the victims. Others described the incident as a tragic example of how quickly traditional horse races can spiral out of control.

However, Tell can not independently verify those claims.

As of Sunday, July 26, neither the Kano State Police Command, local hospitals nor traditional authorities had issued an official statement confirming any deaths, injuries or the exact location where the incident occurred.

At the time of publication, the reported fatalities remained unverified, with the claims based solely on the viral video and social media accounts.

The incident has renewed concerns about safety during informal horse-riding events in Kano, where authorities have repeatedly warned against unauthorised “hawan kilisa” races and ceremonial horse displays in densely populated areas.

Over the years, Kano has recorded several fatal accidents linked to such events.

In 2021, two brothers reportedly died after being trampled by horses during a riding display in Yakasai Quarters. A year later, police arrested an 18-year-old rider after his horse allegedly knocked down and killed a 20-year-old man during another event.

Following those incidents, security agencies announced restrictions on unauthorised horse races across parts of Kano metropolis, citing public safety concerns and the risk posed to spectators and participants alike.

Despite those measures, informal horse-riding gatherings continue to attract large crowds, particularly during festive periods and traditional celebrations.

The latest viral video has reignited calls for stronger safety regulations.

Many social media users urged authorities and organisers to introduce designated race routes, physical barriers separating spectators from horses, trained marshals, emergency medical teams and clear stop procedures to reduce the risk of future tragedies.

Others stressed that preserving northern Nigeria’s rich equestrian heritage should not come at the expense of public safety.

Until officials release a formal investigation or statement, the exact circumstances surrounding the viral incident—and whether any lives were lost—remain unconfirmed.

The video has nevertheless intensified public debate over the need to balance cultural traditions with modern safety standards as informal horse-riding events continue to draw large crowds across northern Nigeria.

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