35 Children Killed in Stampede at Ibadan Children’s Funfair

A devastating stampede occurred at a children’s funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State, resulting in the deaths of at least 35 children. The incident happened at the Islamic High School in the Bashorun district of Ibadan during an end-of-year event organized by Women in Need of Governance and Support (WINGS), an initiative of Queen Naomi Silekunola, former wife of Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi.

The event, initially planned for 5,000 participants, drew over 10,000 attendees, leading to a chaotic scene that resulted in the tragic loss of young lives. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as parents and children rushed to enter the venue, creating a crush at the entrance.

The organizers had promised to give cash handouts and food, which attracted a large crowd. Residents reported that over 5,000 children had gathered at the venue, and the crush occurred when the main organizers arrived to start the event. The overwhelming turnout caused gridlock on the Basorun-Idi Ape Road, complicating rescue efforts.

The Oyo State Government quickly mobilized a rapid response team to provide medical assistance and transport victims to hospitals across the city.

Parents who are concerned about the whereabouts of their children have been urged to check the following hospitals where children affected were taken for proper medical attention:

Patnas Hospital, Basorun, Western Hospital, Basorun, Ringroad State Hospital, Molly Specialist Hospital, University College Hospital (UCH), Adeoyo State Hospital, and Total Family Hospital at Basorun.

The State Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, confirmed that the government had no involvement in organizing the event, stressing the need for proper crowd control at such large gatherings, particularly those involving children. The Oyo State Government has arrested the organizers of the carnival for further investigation.

By Omolola Dare

GMN Correspondent, Oyo State