Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde to the stampede at a funfair at Islamic High School in the Basorun area of Ibadan.
It was gathered that, a stampede which occured on Wednesday morning at a funfair event a organized by Agidigbo 88.7 FM, Ibadan, led by Oriyomi Hamzat, in collaboration with Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife led to the death of several persons including children.
Many others who sutained various degreess of injuries were rushed to Best Western Hospital and others hospitals within the Ibadan metropolis.
The exact number of fatalities and injuries is still unknown, but the incident has sent shockwaves through the community.
“Queen Naomi, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, had planned to surprise 5,000 children with gifts and scholarships at an Islamic school. The event was publicly announced by Agidigbo FM radio for days. However, tragedy struck, resulting in the deaths of at least seven children.
“She wanted to surprise 5000 children’s with gifts and scholarship at Islamic school and Agidigbo FM radio is involved as well.
“About seven children have lost their lives in the tragic stampede at Bashorun. The scene this morning was absolutely devastating,” a source said.
In the run-up to the ill-fated event, the radio station had been enthusiastically advertising the “2024 Children Fun Fair,” generating widespread excitement among local children and their families.
A Facebook post shared on Tuesday by the station read: “Founder of Women In Need Of Guidance and Support, Her Majesty Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi in the Kunle Hamzat studio, ahead of her 2024 Children Fun Fair.
“Speaking during a special programme on Agidigbo FM, Queen Prophetess Naomi Silekunola Ogunswusi is set to host 5000 kids between the age of 0-13 years across Ibadan for free under the aegis of (WINGS) foundation.
“Olori Naomi Ogunwusi revealed that the event, scheduled for Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at Islamic High School Bashorun Ibadan, is strictly for children and they will win exciting prices like scholarships and other bountiful gifts.
“Olori Ogunwusi also assured parents and guardians of adequate security for all participants of the event.”
Reacting to the tragic incident, Oyo governor in a statement issued on his social media handle confirmed the arrest of the organisers.
His statement reads; “Earlier today, an incident occurred in Islamic High School Basorun, the venue of an event organised for families.
“Sadly, a stampede at the venue has led to multiple loss of lives and injuries.
“This is a very sad day for us here in Oyo State. We sympathise with the parents whose joy has suddenly been turned to mourning due to these deaths.
“We have taken steps to ensure no further deaths are recorded at this venue by deploying security agents to restore order at the venue. We also deployed medical personnel and ambulances to the venue. The event has been stopped, and attendees have been escorted out of the venue. We are taking all realistic measures to ensure that the venue is secured.
“While investigations are ongoing, the primary organisers of the event that led to this stampede have been taken into custody.
“I want to reassure our people that anyone directly or remotely involved in this disaster will be held accountable. Please remain calm as the security agencies investigate this unfortunate incident. Our hearts remain with the families and loved ones impacted by this tragedy. May the souls of the departed rest in peace. Amen.”