Funfare event turns tragic, as over 30 children killed, several others injured in Ibadan stampede
*Oyo Government reacts
By OUR REPORTER, Ibadan
The event, targeted at gifting 5,000 children N5,000 each, had earlier been explained on Agidugbo Radio Ibadan where Queen Naomi Ogunwusi visited to announce for parents to let their children attend as, according to her, it was meant to make them happy at the Yuletide.
Information reaching us at The DEFENDER has it that children numbering over 30 lost their lives in Ibadan during a fanfare organised by former Queen of the Ooni of Ife, Olori Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi.
The event, targeted at gifting 5,000 children N5,000 each, had earlier been explained on Agidigbo Radio Ibadan where Queen Naomi Ogunwusi visited to announce for parents to let their children attend as, according to her, it was meant to make them happy at the Yuletide.
“Founder of Women In Need Of Guidance and Support, Her Majesty Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi in the Kunle Hamzat studio, ahead of her 2024 Children Fun Fair.
“Speaking during a special programme on Agidigbo FM, Queen Prophetess Naomi Silekunola Ogunswusi is set to host 5000 kids between the age of 0-13 years across Ibadan for free under the aegis of (WINGS) foundation.
“Olori Naomi Ogunwusi revealed that the event, scheduled for Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at Islamic High School Bashorun Ibadan, is strictly for children and they will win exciting prices like scholarships and other bountiful gifts.
“Olori Ogunwusi also assured parents and guardians of adequate security for all participants of the event,” a brief posted on Agidigbo 88.7 FM Ibadan verified Facebook page said.
In the meantime, the Oyo State Government has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives following the stampede that occurred at a private children’s funfair in the former capital of defunct Western Region.
The incident occurred at an Oyo State public school morning of Wednesday December 18, 2024 claiming yet-to-ascertained number of children, some claimed to be quite over 30, and leaving many others injured.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, the government confirmed the swift deployment of a rapid response team to the scene. Victims were rushed to various hospitals across Ibadan for urgent medical care.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, was commended for mobilizing all available medical response teams to assist in managing the situation. The government pledged its commitment to supporting the victims and their families during this difficult time.
Prince Oyelade clarified that the Oyo State Government was not involved in the planning or logistics of the private event and emphasized the importance of proper coordination and safety measures for gatherings involving children and vulnerable groups. The government extended heartfelt condolences to the affected families and called for calm as investigations into the incident continue.
The stampede occurred during a food funfair organized by Naomi Silekunola, the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife. The event, held at Basorun Islamic High School, was intended to cater to 5,000 beneficiaries, offering gifts and fun in anticipation of the festive season.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident unfolded at the venue’s entrance, where the crowd exceeded expectations. The overwhelming number of attendees led to chaos, resulting in the tragic stampede.
At Patnas Specialist Hospital, an administrative officer, Olufemi Akinyele, confirmed that six children were brought in. Unfortunately, five had passed away before reaching the facility, while one was rescued.
A parent of one of the deceased children, Iya Ayo, expressed deep regret for allowing her ward to attend the event.
As of the time of this report, the bodies of four deceased children at Patnas Hospital had not yet been claimed by their parents.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Adewale Osifeso, stated that investigations into the incident are ongoing.
Concerned parents are advised to visit the following hospitals in Ibadan for information about their children, providing valid identification:
Patnas Specialist Hospital, Basorun
Western Hospital, Basorun
Ringroad State Hospital
Molly Specialist Hospital
University College Hospital (UCH)
The Oyo State Government reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of its residents and urged event organizers to prioritize crowd control and safety measures in future gatherings.
