A devastating stampede during a children’s carnival in Ibadan on Wednesday has reportedly claimed the lives of over 30 children, leaving many others injured. The tragic incident occurred at a private funfair held at Basorun Islamic High School in the Oyo State capital.
In a statement, the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, confirmed the occurrence and revealed that victims were promptly evacuated to hospitals across Ibadan for urgent medical care. Facilities treating the affected include Patnas Hospital, Basorun; Western Hospital, Basorun; Ringroad State Hospital; Molly Specialist Hospital; and the University College Hospital, Ibadan.
Oyelade commended the Commissioner for Health, Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, for activating emergency response teams immediately. He assured the public that the government would support the victims and their families during this difficult time.
“The state government was not involved in the planning of this private event, nor was the Ministry of Health consulted for logistics,” Oyelade stated, adding that proper coordination is crucial for organising large gatherings, particularly those involving vulnerable groups.
Authorities are awaiting a detailed report from the Commissioner of Police to confirm the exact number of casualties and provide clarity on the incident.
Parents searching for their children are advised to visit the listed medical facilities with valid identification. The government extended its condolences to grieving families and urged the public to remain calm as investigations continue and support measures are implemented.
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:
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