Tragedy struck on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, when a stampede in Ibadan during the annual children’s funfair turned fatal, claiming no fewer than 32 lives of children. The event at the Islamic High School located at Bashorun district, Odo-Ona area was hosted by the Women In Need Of Guidance and Support Foundation owned by Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, an ex-wife of Ooni of Ife, co-sponsored by Agidigbo 88.7 FM station.
The funfair, meant to be the most joyous of festive events, turned tragic with an uncontrollable crowd exceeding all plans for capacity, surged towards the venue. According to witnesses, the organizers had expected about 5,000 children, while more than 7,500 jostled to join in. The incident became really critical when enthusiasts to join the fun compelled the main gate to collapse amidst a fatal stampede.
The Oyo State Police Command has, in the aftermath, confirmed the incident and has begun a full-scale investigation to ascertain the actual cause of the incidence and whether there was any laxity on the side of the safety measures. Prophetess Naomi Silekunola and seven others connected to the event have been detained for questioning. The police emphasized their commitment to uncovering the facts and ensuring accountability.
The Management of Agidigbo FM, while sending a condolence message to the families of the victims, through its Director of Programmes, Olayinka Abdulwahab, emphasized that as a media partner that only promoted the event on-air without being involved in the organisational aspect, it started broadcasting advisories upon sensing the size of the crowd to urge people not to go to the already-filled venue.
This tragedy has beclouded the festive season in Ibadan, with calls for more stringent safety measures at public events. As the investigation continues, the community mourns the young lives lost and seeks answers to prevent such a calamity from recurring.
In response to the incident, President Bola Tinubu ordered a thorough investigation and sent condolences to the affected families. The case has been transferred to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department, under the direct supervision of the Deputy Commissioner of Police.
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, also issued a statement, sympathizing with the bereaved families, while offering support to his ex-wife, Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, who he noted had over the years put together such palliative events, adding that the gesture was worthwhile, although with more precautions next time.
As the community grapples with this devastating loss, there is a collective call for enhanced safety protocols at public gatherings to ensure such tragedies are averted in the future.
