At least 35 children lost their lives in a tragic stampede at a children’s funfair in Ibadan on Wednesday, with six others critically injured. The incident has left the city in mourning and raised urgent questions about safety at public events.
The stampede occurred at Basorun Islamic High School, where a holiday event had drawn large crowds. Eyewitnesses reported chaotic scenes as children struggled to escape a packed venue. “We came for fun, but it turned into a nightmare,” said one distraught parent.
Oyo State police confirmed the death toll on Thursday, alongside the arrest of eight suspects linked to the tragedy. “The investigation is now under the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department,” said police spokesperson Adewale Osifeso.
In a statement, President Bola Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the loss of young lives and ordered a comprehensive investigation. “This is a heartbreaking incident,” Tinubu stated. “We must ensure such tragedies never happen again.”
Investigation Underway
Police assured the public that justice would be served. “Residents should not panic as increased patrols will ensure security in the area,” Mr. Osifeso added.
READ MORE: West Africa Faces Historic Shift as ECOWAS Approves Exit of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso
President Tinubu directed federal and state authorities to assess the safety standards of public events and enforce strict regulations. “Event organisers must prioritise safety, particularly for children,” his spokesperson Bayo Onanuga said.
The president also extended condolences to grieving families. “No parent should experience such a loss. My thoughts are with all affected,” he said.
Hospitals Overwhelmed
Funmilayo Adetuyibi, spokesperson for the University College Hospital (UCH), confirmed that five victims were brought in lifeless. “We received five children who were already dead on arrival,” she said. Other victims were taken to various hospitals across Ibadan.
The Oyo State Government has promised to review public event guidelines to prevent similar occurrences. “We owe it to these children to ensure their deaths were not in vain,” an official stated.
The full investigation is expected to shed light on whether negligence or deliberate actions contributed to the stampede, ensuring accountability and justice for the victims.
