A tragic incident at a funfair in Ibadan has claimed the lives of 35 people, with many others injured. The event, which was meant to bring joy to families, turned into a nightmare when a stampede broke out due to overcrowding and poor crowd control. Witnesses reported chaos as attendees scrambled to escape the crowded venue. The tragedy has sparked outrage and calls for accountability over the negligence that led to the loss of lives.
In the aftermath, the police have arrested several individuals in connection with the incident, including Zaynab Otiti Obanor, ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, who was allegedly involved in organizing the event. Authorities revealed that the arrests were made to investigate possible lapses in planning, safety measures, and crowd control. The organizers are being questioned to determine their level of responsibility for the incident, which has left the community devastated.
Eyewitnesses claim that the venue was overcrowded, with attendees far exceeding the location’s capacity. This, coupled with inadequate exits and emergency planning, worsened the situation. Survivors recounted moments of panic as people were trampled underfoot in the rush to escape. The police have promised a thorough investigation to uncover the cause of the stampede and ensure justice for the victims.
The death toll, which now stands at 35, includes children and elderly individuals who were unable to escape the chaos. Hospitals in the area are treating numerous injured attendees, many of whom remain in critical condition. Families of the victims have called for the prosecution of those responsible, demanding that safety protocols for public events be strictly enforced to prevent future tragedies.
This tragic incident has brought attention to the need for improved safety regulations and enforcement at public gatherings in Nigeria. Advocacy groups have urged the government to prioritize public safety and hold organizers accountable for negligence. As investigations continue, the tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the importance of proper planning and crowd management in ensuring the safety of attendees at public events.
