At least 32 children have tragically lost their lives in a stampede at a children’s funfair held at Basorun Islamic High School in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Wednesday.
The incident occurred when a large crowd of children, exceeding the planned capacity, rushed to gain entry to the venue. The funfair was reportedly organised by the ex-queen of the Ooni of Ife, Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, and Ibadan-based broadcaster, Oriyomi Hamzat.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that the stampede was triggered by a surge of children trying to break through the main gate. Despite the organisers planning for 5,000 attendees, the event was overwhelmed by a crowd of over 7,500.
A video circulating online captures the chaotic scene, with children being rushed out of the venue and distressed parents mourning the loss of their loved ones.
Agidigbo FM, a media partner for the event, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and clarified that it was not the primary organiser. The station stated that it had taken steps to warn the public about the overwhelming crowd but was unable to prevent the tragic outcome.
The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the incident and launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Several hospitals in Ibadan, including Patnas Hospital, Western Hospital, Ring Road State Hospital, Molly Specialist Hospital, and University College Hospital, received victims of the stampede.
As investigations continue, the community mourns the loss of young lives and calls for stricter safety measures at future events.
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