The Oyo State Police Command has launched an investigation into the tragic death of 32 children during a stampede at a funfair in Ibadan on Wednesday. The event, reportedly organized by Prophetess Naomi Shikemi, the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, and broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat, ended in chaos as an estimated 7,500 attendees overwhelmed a venue designed for 5,000 participants.
Eyewitness accounts revealed that the overcrowding led to a stampede, with devastating casualties. A witness stated, “Oriyomi Hamzat intended to host 5,000 participants, but lack of organization escalated the situation. We weren’t even up to 5,000 initially, yet the scene became uncontrollable.”
Videos from the incident showed frantic efforts to rescue children as distressed parents wailed over their losses.
Hospitals and Casualties
At Patnas Hospital, six children were admitted; five succumbed to their injuries, while one survived and was discharged. The hospital’s administrative officer, Olufeyemi Tolulope, recounted the tragedy: “The affected children arrived around 8 a.m. We saved one child, but five others were declared dead.”
Other victims were taken to Western Hospital, Ring Road State Hospital, Molly Specialist Hospital, and the University College Hospital (UCH). UCH’s Public Relations Officer, Mrs. Funmi Adetuyibi, confirmed that five victims arrived dead, with none remaining under admission.
Organizer Reactions and Police Investigation
Oriyomi Hamzat’s radio station, Agidigbo FM, distanced itself from the tragedy, stating it was a media partner, not the organizer. In a statement by its Director of Programmes, Olayinka Abdulwahab, the station expressed condolences and noted efforts to dissuade further attendance when the venue became overcrowded.
The Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, acknowledged the tragedy, urging thorough investigations. Police spokesperson Adewale Osifeso confirmed that inquiries are ongoing.
Efforts to reach Prophetess Naomi for comments were unsuccessful as her phone number was unreachable, and messages sent to her remained unanswered.
Parents Demand Accountability
Distraught parents demanded government intervention to ensure proper handling of their children’s remains. One grieving mother lamented, “We slept together last night, not knowing it would be our last time.”
The incident has sparked widespread grief and calls for improved safety measures at public events, especially those involving children.
