A devastating stampede at a private children’s funfair in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, has reportedly claimed the lives of numerous children.
The tragic incident occurred on Wednesday at Basorun Islamic High School, leaving many families in mourning.
Preliminary reports suggest that over 30 children lost their lives, with many others injured in the chaos.
The state government swiftly mobilized a rapid response team to manage the situation and provide assistance to the victims.
According to a statement by the Oyo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, the injured were immediately transported to various hospitals within Ibadan for medical attention.
The facilities currently attending to the victims include Patnas Hospital, Western Hospital, Ringroad State Hospital, Molly Specialist Hospital, and the University College Hospital.
The Commissioner for Health, Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, activated all available response teams to provide aid at the scene, with Oyelade expressing the government’s gratitude for the quick intervention.
While emphasizing that the event was privately organized, Oyelade noted that the state government and Ministry of Health were not involved in the planning or logistics of the funfair.
He stressed the need for proper coordination when hosting events involving children and vulnerable groups to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Parents searching for their children have been advised to visit the listed hospitals with valid identification to confirm the status of their loved ones.
A detailed report from the Commissioner of Police is being awaited to clarify the total number of casualties.
Meanwhile, the Oyo State Government has extended its condolences to the affected families and pledged to provide necessary support during this difficult time.
The public has been urged to remain calm as investigations continue, and further updates are expected in the coming days.
