No fewer than 35 children lost their lives, and six others were left critically injured following a tragic stampede at a funfair organized in Ibadan, Oyo State..
The Oyo State Police Command confirmed the development on Thursday, revealing that eight individuals involved in sponsoring the ill-fated event have been arrested.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Osifeso Adewale, disclosed in a statement that the deceased were minors, while the injured victims are currently undergoing intensive medical care.
“So far, 35 minors have been documented dead, while six others are critically injured and on various medical interventions,” Osifeso said.
The incident occurred at the Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, where the funfair was organized by Prophetess Naomi Shikemi, a former queen of the Ooni of Ife. What began as a day of joy turned chaotic, leading to a stampede that claimed the lives of many innocent children.
The police revealed that eight suspects linked to the event’s organization have been apprehended. Among those arrested are Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, the main event sponsor; Fasasi Abdulahi, the School Principal of Islamic High School; Genesis Christopher; Tanimowo Moruf; Anisolaja Olabode; Idowu Ibrahim; and Abiola Oluwatimilehin.
The police spokesperson assured the public of a thorough investigation to determine the causes of the tragedy and the culpability of those involved.
“We are committed to unraveling all circumstances surrounding this unfortunate incident to ensure justice for the victims and their families,” the statement added.
This tragic event has sparked outrage and grief among residents and stakeholders, with many calling for stricter regulations on public events to prevent future occurrences.
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