IBADAN – An unspecified number of children died on Wednesday morning at the Islamic High School in Basorun, Ibadan, Oyo State, South-West Nigeria after a stampede during a children’s Christmas party reportedly hosted by Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, an ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde in a statement – confirmed that multiple lives were lost and expressed sadness over the disaster.
Numerous children were reportedly rushed to the University of Ibadan College Hospital (UCH), where some were confirmed dead upon arrival, while medical staff worked to treat others, according to local news outlets.
Unconfirmed sources at UCH indicated that some children were brought to the hospital already dead. As of the time of reporting, the hospital’s management had not yet issued an official statement.
The tragic event, which was intended to spread joy, has instead turned into a heartbreaking disaster, as families rushed to collect food and gifts.
A staff member at Agidigbo FM told a local news outlet that Queen Naomi organised the event which targeted 5,000 children, while the radio station owned by popular broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat – only announced it.
“She came to Agidigbo to announce that the event would be held at Islamic High School, Basorun. She came for a jingle placement. What we noticed was the stampede. Now the event has been cancelled,” the staff said on Wednesday. “Meanwhile, as I am speaking to you, Agidigbo is having its party right now, while Queen Naomi’s party did not take place.”
In a post by Agidigbo FM on Tuesday on Facebook, the station explained that Queen Naomi was set to host the party under the aegis of WINGS Foundation.
A statement by Dotun Oyelade, commissioner for information and orientation, said victims have been taken to different hospitals across Ibadan for treatment.
“A stampede occurred at the private children’s fun fair held at Basorun Islamic High School, leading to loss of lives, mostly children, with some others injured in the early hours of today,” the statement reads.
“The State Government swiftly mobilised a rapid response team following the breaking of the incident.
“Victims have been swiftly transported to various hospitals within the Ibadan metropolis for medical attention.
“Parents who are concerned about the whereabouts of their children are urged to check the following medical facilities in Ibadan where children affected were taken for proper medical attention with valid means of identification.
“The medical facilities are Patnas Hospital, Basorun; Western Hospital, Basorun; Ringroad State Hospital; Molly Specialist HospitalUniversity College Hospital (UCH).”
Sympathising with the parents who lost their kids, Governor Makinde said that the primary organisers of the event that led to this stampede had been taken into custody.
KOIKI Media could not confirm if the queen was among those in custody or if she was being interrogated at press time.
“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,” a statement by the governor reads.
“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.”
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