Oyo Stampede: Police arrests funfair organizers as gov Makinde promises justice

Michael Boluwatife

Authorities in Oyo State have arrested the organizers of a children's funfair in Ibadan, following a tragic stampede on Wednesday at the Islamic High School in Basorun that resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries.

The Oyo state governor, Seyi Makinde  confirmed the arrests in a statement shared on his X.com account on Wednesday.

In the statement, Makinde, expressed profound sorrow over the recent incident and extend his condolences to the grieving families.

Thewatch Africa had earlier reported a tragic incident that claimed the lives of many children and left many others badly injured in Oyo state.

Makinde wrote, "Earlier today, an incident occurred at Islamic High School, Basorun, the venue of an event organized for families. Sadly, a stampede at the venue has led to multiple loss of lives and injuries. This is a very sad day for us in Oyo State."

The governor assured the public that swift actions were being taken to prevent further harm. "We have deployed security agents to restore order at the venue and medical personnel to provide assistance. The event has been stopped, and attendees have been escorted out. We are taking all necessary measures to ensure the venue is secured," he said.

Makinde emphasised that those responsible for the disaster would face justice. 

He said, "I want to reassure our people that anyone directly or indirectly involved in this tragedy will be held accountable. Please remain calm as investigations continue."

Although the identities of the organizers were not immediately revealed by the state government, sources indicate that the event was organized by Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, in collaboration with Agidigbo 88.7 FM, Ibadan, owned by Oriyomi Hamzat. The funfair, intended to entertain 5,000 children aged 0 to 13, was organized under the Women In Need of Guidance and Support foundation.

Prior to the event, Agidigbo FM had announced that Queen Naomi had assured parents of adequate security at the venue.

Investigations are ongoing, and Governor Makinde called for calm while offering his prayers to the victims’ families.

"Our hearts remain with the families impacted by this tragedy. May the souls of the departed rest in peace," he said.