Many Children Feared Dead In Stampede At Ibadan Carnival

Many Children Feared Dead In Stampede At Ibadan Carnival

IBADAN — Several children are reported to have lost their lives in a stampede that occurred during a carnival in Ibadan…READ MORE…

The event, believed to have been organized by a former wife of the Ooni of Ife, turned tragic amidst the chaos.

While the exact number of casualties has yet to be confirmed, sources informed Vanguard that nearly 20 children may have died. The carnival, held at Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, had been progressing smoothly until the distribution of gifts began.

In a viral video on X, one child was seen being carried away from the crowd that surged forward to get a closer look at the unfolding events. Reports indicate that the venue, which was designed to accommodate 500 children, was overwhelmed with over 3,000 children eager to receive gifts.

The ensuing chaos reportedly led to a stampede, with some children falling and struggling to get back on their feet.

In response to this tragic incident, the Oyo State Government expressed deep sadness over the loss of life and injuries sustained during the stampede.

The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, confirmed the incident and noted that a rapid response team was mobilized to address the situation at the children’s funfair held at Basorun Islamic High School, where the casualties primarily involved young attendees.

Oyelade stated, “The state government acted swiftly following reports of the incident. Victims have been moved to various hospitals in Ibadan for urgent medical care.”

Parents concerned about their children’s whereabouts are advised to check specific medical facilities, where affected children have been taken for treatment. Hospitals receiving the injured include Patnas Hospital, Basorun, Western Hospital, Basorun, Ringroad State Hospital, Molly Specialist Hospital, and University College Hospital.

Reports suggest that some injured children were pronounced dead upon arrival at several hospitals, while medical teams continue to work hard to save others.

A witness at UCH remarked, “They just brought in four children; I don’t know if they are deceased. I witnessed another one passing away just now. May the Almighty rest their souls. The organizers should have better prepared for this. There’s poverty, and sometimes greed involved, but proper planning could have made a difference.”

The state government emphasized that it was not involved in the planning or logistics of this private event and underscored the necessity for appropriate coordination and safety measures for events targeting children and vulnerable populations.

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