Many children have reportedly lost their lives in a stampede that occurred at a funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State capital. The incident happened in the Bashorun area of Ibadan on Wednesday.
Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, organised the event in collaboration with Agidigbo 88.7 FM, Ibadan, owned by Oriyomi Hamzat.
For his part, Seyi Makinde, the governor of the state, said that measures have been taken to prevent further deaths at the venue, including deploying security agents to restore order.
The Oyo governor said the primary organisers of the event that led to the stampede have been taken into custody as investigations continue.
“Earlier today, an incident occurred in Islamic High School Basorun, the venue of an event organised for families. Sadly, a stampede at the venue has led to multiple losses of lives and injuries,” Makinde wrote on X.
“This is a very sad day for us here in Oyo State. We sympathise with the parents whose joy has suddenly been turned to mourning due to these deaths.
“We have taken steps to ensure no further deaths are recorded at this venue by deploying security agents to restore order at the venue. We also deployed medical personnel and ambulances to the venue.
“The event has been stopped, and attendees have been escorted out of the venue. We are taking all realistic measures to ensure that the venue is secured.
“While investigations are ongoing, the primary organisers of the event that led to this stampede have been taken into custody.”
The Oyo governor reassured residents that anyone directly or remotely involved in the disaster would be held accountable.
Makinde asked that people remain calm as security agencies investigate the incident. He also extended his condolences to the families and loved ones affected by the tragedy.
The exact number of casualties is still unclear; however, Dotun Oyelade, commissioner for information and orientation, stated on Wednesday that victims have been taken to different hospitals across Ibadan for treatment.
“A stampede occurred at the private children’s fun fair held at Basorun Islamic High School, leading to the loss of lives, mostly children, with some others injured in the early hours of today,” the statement reads.
“The State Government swiftly mobilised a rapid response team following the breaking of the incident.
“Victims have been swiftly transported to various hospitals within the Ibadan metropolis for medical attention.
“Parents concerned about their children’s whereabouts are urged to check the following medical facilities in Ibadan where children affected were taken for proper medical attention with valid means of identification.
“The medical facilities are Patnas Hospital, Basorun; Western Hospital, Basorun; Ringroad State Hospital; Molly Specialist Hospital; and University College Hospital (UCH).”
