Updated: 32 feared dead in Ibadan funfair tragedy: Ooni’s ex-wife, others arrested

At least, 32 children were feared killed during a stampede at a funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State capital on Wednesday with the organizers already cooling their heels in police custody.

Grief-stricken Gov. Seyi Makinde has expressed profound sorrow over the tragic stampede.

Persecondnews gathered that a stampede occurred when the children and their parents struggled to gain entry to the venue of the event reportedly organized by the ex-queen of the Ooni of Ife, Prophetess Naomi Shikemi, and an Ibadan-based broadcaster, Oriyomi Hamzat.

The venue for the event is Agidigbo FM in Bashorun area of the metropolis.

According to sources, provision was made for 5,000 children but the number that turned up for the event was well over 7, 500.

A witness said the organizers could not manage the situation well as crowd control measures were not put in place.

“They invited about 5,000 participants for the funfair but the situation got out of control when it became rowdy leading to a stampede that resulted in several casualties,” he said.

In a statement, Gov. Makinde described the day as a dark one for Oyo State. He extended condolences to the grieving families and vowed that all those responsible for the disaster would be held accountable.

“This is a very sad day for us here in Oyo State,” the governor said, adding that “We sympathise with the parents whose joy has suddenly turned to mourning due to these deaths.”

The governor said some measures were taken by the state government to restore order at the venue, including the deployment of security agents, medical personnel, and ambulances, while the event was immediately halted, and attendees escorted out of the premises.

Makinde confirmed that the organisers of the event had been taken into custody to facilitate an investigation.

“While investigations are ongoing, I want to reassure our people that anyone directly or remotely involved in this disaster will be held accountable,” he stated.

He called for calm as security agencies conduct their inquiries and offered prayers for the repose of the souls lost in the tragedy.

“Our hearts remain with the families and loved ones impacted by this tragedy. May the souls of the departed rest in peace,” he said.

The state government has pledged to provide support to the victims and their families and ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future.

The Oyo State Police Command also confirmed that investigation has been launched into the circumstances surrounding the alleged death of the children.