A Christmas celebration in Ibadan, Oyo State, turned tragic when a stampede resulted in the deaths of over 20 children. The event, hosted by Agidigbo 88.7 FM and led by Oriyomi Hamzat, in collaboration with Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, promised gifts and scholarships to attendees. The event, held at the Islamic High School in Bashorun, drew a large crowd, leading to a chaotic rush.
Eyewitnesses reported 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.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State announced the arrest of the event organizers and stated that the state government has taken steps to halt further deaths and has commenced an investigation. Medical personnel and ambulances were deployed to the venue, and the event was stopped, with attendees escorted out. The governor assured that anyone directly or remotely involved in the disaster would be held accountable.
The incident has been described as a heartbreaking disaster, with families rushing to collect food and gifts. Social media users have criticized the event’s organization, suggesting that better planning could have prevented the tragedy.
