A devastating stampede occurred at a funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Wednesday, resulting in the tragic loss of 35 children’s lives and leaving six others critically injured. The event, organized by the Women in Need of Guidance and Support, a non-governmental organization founded by Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, was intended to be a fun-filled day for children but turned into a nightmare ¹.
According to eyewitnesses, the stampede occurred when a massive crowd thronged the venue, the Islamic High School, Basorun, Ibadan, causing several participants to be trampled upon as they rushed to gain access to the event. The organizers had made provision for 5,000 children, but over 7,500 participants turned up, leading to the chaos ¹.
The Oyo State Police Command has detained seven individuals, including Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, in connection with the tragedy. The other detainees include Fasasi Abdulahi, the 56-year-old principal of the school, and five others: Genesis Christopher, Tanimowo Moruf, Anisolaja Olabode, Idowu Ibrahim, and Abiola Oluwatimilehin ¹.
The police have transferred the case to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department, where the Deputy Commissioner of Police is leading the inquiry. The Police Public Relations Officer, Adewale Osifeso, assured the public that justice would be served accordingly ¹.
The stampede resulted in the tragic loss of 35 minors, with six additional children reported to be in critical condition and receiving various medical interventions. The police have increased their presence in the area to maintain peace and security, while residents have been advised not to panic ¹.
The Oyo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, confirmed that parents had been granted custody of the bodies of the victims. Many parents had demanded the release of their children’s corpses from the hospitals where they were rushed ¹.
President Bola Tinubu has expressed sadness over the tragic incident and directed relevant authorities to investigate the circumstances of the tragedy thoroughly. He extended his condolences to the government and people of Oyo State, as well as to the grieving families ².
The President urged the Oyo State government to take immediate action to prevent such incidents in the future. He emphasized that the safety and well-being of children remain paramount, and no event should ever compromise their safety or take precedence over their lives ².
The incident has sparked widespread outrage and calls for accountability. The police investigation is ongoing, and the public is eagerly awaiting the outcome. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the need for proper planning, safety measures, and crowd control at public events ¹.
As the families of the victims mourn their loved ones, the community comes together to offer support and condolences. The incident will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the community, and efforts will be made to ensure that such a tragedy never occurs again.
