Makinde: Oyo children’s funfair organisers arrested after stampede
The organisers of a children’s funfair, where a stampede occurred on Wednesday at Islamic High School, Basorun, Ibadan, Oyo State, have been arrested.
Many people were feared dead in the incident, prompting investigations to determine its cause.
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, confirmed the arrests in a statement shared on his official X handle. He assured that measures were being taken to prevent further fatalities, while offering condolences to the victims and their families.
The governor wrote, “Earlier today, an incident occurred at the Islamic High School Basorun, where an event was held for families. Unfortunately, a stampede resulted in multiple deaths and injuries. This is a very tragic day for us here in Oyo State. We mourn with the parents whose happiness has been turned into sorrow.”
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Makinde detailed the actions taken, saying, “We have deployed security agents to restore order at the venue and medical personnel along with ambulances have been sent. The event has been halted, and attendees escorted out. We are ensuring the venue is secured to prevent further incidents.”
While the investigation is ongoing, the primary organisers of the event have been taken into custody. The governor added, “I assure the public that anyone found responsible, whether directly or indirectly, will be held accountable. We urge calm as the security agencies continue their investigation into this sad event.”
He concluded by expressing solidarity with the affected families: “Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of those impacted by this tragedy. May the souls of the departed rest in peace. Amen.”
Earlier reports indicated that many people were feared dead and others injured during the stampede at the children’s carnival. While the state government has not disclosed the identities of the organisers, sources revealed that the event was organised by Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, in partnership with Agidigbo 88.7 FM, Ibadan, owned by Oriyomi Hamzat.
On Tuesday, Agidigbo FM announced on its Facebook page that Ogunwusi, founder of the Women In Need Of Guidance and Support (WINGS) foundation, had visited the station ahead of the funfair, which was set to take place on Wednesday, December 18, 2024.
The post stated that Ogunwusi was expecting 5,000 children, aged 0-13 years, from across Ibadan for the event, offering exciting prizes like scholarships and other gifts. She also assured parents of the safety of all participants.
Proofreading by Uchechi Ojo, Sub-editor at NeptunePrime.
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