Kehinde Fajobi
A tragic stampede at a children’s carnival in Ibadan, Oyo State, has resulted in multiple fatalities, many of whom were children.
The incident occurred at the private fun fair at Basorun Islamic High School early today, leading to both deaths and injuries.
In a statement, the state’s Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, confirmed the incident and assured the public that a rapid response team had been mobilised.
He stated that victims were quickly transported to various hospitals in Ibadan for medical care.
Oyelade expressed gratitude to the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, for immediately activating all available response teams.
He also assured the public that the state government would provide support to the victims during this difficult time.
The statement clarified that the Oyo State government was not involved in the planning of the event, nor had the Ministry of Health been requested to provide logistical support for the private children’s funfair.
The government emphasised the need for proper coordination for events of this scale, especially those involving children and the elderly.
Oyelade further announced that they are awaiting a report from the Commissioner of Police to confirm the exact number of victims.
Parents of missing children were urged to visit the following medical facilities in Ibadan to locate their children: Patnas Hospital, Basorun; Western Hospital, Basorun; Ringroad State Hospital; Molly Specialist Hospital; and University College Hospital (UCH).
The state government extended its deepest sympathies to the families affected by the tragedy and called on the public to remain calm as further information is gathered.