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At least 6 people have lost their lives amid a stampede at a military recruitment gathering held in a sports arena in Ghana.

The Wednesday's "tragic" incident seems to have been triggered by "an unexpected surge of candidates who breached security protocols and rushed into the entrances," stated a release from Ghana's armed forces.

Twenty-two others were injured, including five who remain in critical condition.

A large crowd had gathered at El-Wak stadium, in the capital, the capital, with the hope of joining the military.

Ghana has a rate of joblessness among young people of approximately 32%, the most recent official data show, and such enlistment drives normally draw massive gatherings and often result in chaotic scenes.

The deadline to submit applications for this recruitment was extended by a seven days to allow for more applicants, as a number had faced difficulties in the process.

Military representative Captain Veronica Adzo Arhin stated the stampede took place before the planned commencement time of 06:20 GMT.

Ghana's President John Mahama has visited the wounded in medical care.

Order has been restored, and the enlistment process has since begun.