- Stampede at Overcrowded Event Sparks Mourning and Calls for Accountability
A tragic stampede at a children’s funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State, has claimed the lives of 35 children and left six others critically injured. The event, organised by Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, a former queen of the Ooni of Ife, and Women in Need of Guidance and Support (WINGS), her NGO, took place on Wednesday at Islamic High School, Basorun.
The Oyo State Police Command has detained Silekunola, aged 31, alongside six others, including Fasasi Abdulahi, the school’s principal, and broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat, as investigations continue.
The stampede occurred as an estimated 7,500 participants overwhelmed a venue prepared for only 5,000, leading to chaos as the crowd forced its way in. Eyewitnesses recounted harrowing scenes of children being trampled.
Police spokesperson Adewale Osifeso confirmed the deaths, stating that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department’s Homicide Section for thorough inquiry. He assured the public of justice and heightened police presence in the area to maintain peace.
Aggrieved parents have retrieved the bodies of their deceased children from hospitals across the city, including Patnas Hospital, University College Hospital, and Ring Road State Hospital. Survivors shared stories of narrow escapes, with one parent recounting how she rescued her three-year-old daughter by biting through the crowd to reach her.
The tragedy has drawn widespread condemnation and condolences. President Bola Tinubu expressed his sadness, directing a comprehensive review of public event safety measures. “Our children’s safety and well-being remain paramount. No event should ever compromise their lives,” Tinubu stated.
First Lady Oluremi Tinubu and the Ooni of Ife’s palace also sympathised with the families, while urging organisers to adopt stricter safety protocols in future events.
Oriyomi Hamzat, reportedly hospitalised after collapsing from shock, has denied direct involvement in organising the event. Agidigbo FM, where he serves as Chairman, clarified its role as a media partner, not an organiser.
The incident has prompted urgent calls for stricter safety standards and better crowd control at public events to prevent such tragedies in the future.
