Child dies, several injured at Ibadan carnival stampede

An end-of-year celebration organized by Evangelist Silekunola Naomi Ogunwusi, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, turned tragic on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, in Ibadan.

Reports indicate that at least one child has died, while many others were injured during a stampede at the event.

The gathering, which was held at the Islamic High School in the Bashorun area of Ibadan, attracted a massive crowd, with attendees arriving from neighboring towns. Some attendees reportedly camped overnight at the venue, responding to publicity from a popular Ibadan-based radio station.

Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, while confirming the incident, noted that the state government has responded to the situation.

He said: “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 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:

– Patnas Hospital, Basorun
– Western Hospital, Basorun
– Ringroad State Hospital
– Molly Specialist Hospital
– University College Hospital (UCH).”