The Oyo State Government has announced the arrest of the organisers of a children’s party in Ibadan that ended in a d3adly stampede.
Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, in collaboration with Agidigbo 88.7 FM, Ibadan, owned by Oriyomi Hamzat, organised the event.
Sadly, it degenerated into a stampede that killed many people in Ibadan.
SaharaReporters earlier broke the news about how tragedy struck on Wednesday morning at the Islamic High School in Bashorun, Ibadan, when a stampede occurred during a children’s Christmas party.
Meanwhile, Governor Seyi Makinde in a statement on Wednesday said the main organisers have been taken into custody.
This tragic incident led to the death of several people, mainly children who attended the party.
Eyewitnesses report that many children were trampled in the chaos, with several others injured and currently receiving treatment at the University College Hospital in Ibadan.
The exact number of fatalities and injuries is still unknown, but the incident has sent shockwaves through the community.
Reacting in a press statement shared via his personal X profile, the state governor also confirmed the multiple deaths during the stampede as reported by SaharaReporters.
He said his government has commenced a proper investigation into the matter, saying all the organisers and those behind the party have been arrested.
The statement: “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,” Makinde added.