Ibadan Funfair Tragedy: 32 Children Feared Dead

The Oyo State Police Command has initiated an investigation into the tragic events that unfolded during a children’s funfair in Ibadan, where a stampede reportedly claimed the lives of 32 children. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday at the Islamic High School, Bashorun, has left the community in shock and mourning.

Circumstances Leading to the Stampede

According to eyewitness accounts, the stampede happened when participants rushed to gain access to the venue. The event was reportedly organized by Prophetess Naomi Shikemi, the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, in collaboration with Ibadan-based broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat.

The funfair, which was initially planned for 5,000 children, became overcrowded as over 7,500 participants reportedly turned up. Chaos ensued as the crowd struggled to enter the venue, leading to a stampede that resulted in numerous casualties.

One eyewitness narrated in a video:

“Oriyomi Hamzat said he wanted 5,000 participants, but due to poor organization, the situation spiraled out of control. We weren’t even up to 5,000 participants, yet things got this bad.”

Heartbreaking Losses

Another attendee shared the devastating loss of a child during the incident, saying, “Rather than addressing the situation properly, the organizers seemed more intent on arguing. We just lost one child, and the body has been taken to the University College Hospital.”

Video footage from the scene showed children being rushed out of the venue amidst wailing from parents. A visibly distressed mother cried out for her lost child, underscoring the depth of the tragedy.

Response from Agidigbo FM

In the wake of the incident, Agidigbo FM, owned by Oriyomi Hamzat, released a statement distancing itself from the event’s organization. The station clarified its role as a media partner, emphasizing its efforts to control the situation upon realizing the crowd size exceeded expectations.

Olayinka Abdulwahab, the station’s Director of Programmes, expressed sympathy for the victims:

“This tragedy has shocked us deeply. While Agidigbo FM helped promote the event, we were not the organizers. Upon noticing the overwhelming crowd, we issued jingles and announcements urging people to avoid the venue. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families.”

Ongoing Investigation and Casualty Reports

Adewale Osifeso, the spokesperson for the Oyo State Police Command, confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause and circumstances of the stampede.

In addition, the Oyo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, provided details about the affected victims. Many were admitted to various hospitals, including Patnas Hospital, Basorun; Western Hospital, Basorun; Ring Road State Hospital; Molly Specialist Hospital; and the University College Hospital (UCH).

At Patnas Hospital, Administrative Officer Olufeyemi Tolulope reported, “Six children were brought in around 8am. Tragically, five were pronounced dead, while one is recovering.”

Similarly, the Public Relations Officer at UCH, Mrs. Funmi Adetuyibi, confirmed that five victims were brought in already deceased. Other hospitals also reported receiving victims who succumbed to their injuries.

A Community in Mourning

The tragic event has left a somber atmosphere in Ibadan, with families grieving the loss of their loved ones. As the investigation progresses, questions about planning, safety measures, and crowd control at the event remain at the forefront.

The Oyo State Police Command has assured the public of thorough investigations, promising updates as more details emerge. Meanwhile, the community continues to grapple with the aftermath of this heartbreaking incident.