Paul Akomolehin, South West
DAILY COURIER – A tragic stampede at the Islamic High School, Basorun, Ibadan, during a festive party for children, has left many feared dead and several others injured.
The event, organised by Agidigbo FM and reportedly involving the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, turned chaotic earlier today, leaving families devastated.
The festive gathering, intended to celebrate children and provide family-friendly entertainment, turned into a scene of panic and grief. Eyewitnesses reported that the overcrowding and lack of crowd control measures contributed to the deadly stampede, which claimed multiple lives, including children.
In a swift response, His Excellency Governor Seyi Makinde expressed profound sorrow over the incident. In a statement, the governor described the day as a "very sad day for us here in Oyo State" and extended his sympathies to the grieving families whose joy had turned into mourning.
Governor Makinde confirmed that security agents had been deployed to the venue to restore order and prevent further casualties. Medical personnel and ambulances were also on-site to provide urgent care to the injured. The event was immediately halted, and all attendees were escorted from the premises for their safety.
Preliminary investigations have led to the detention of the event organisers for questioning. Governor Makinde assured the public that anyone found culpable, whether directly or indirectly, would face full accountability for the tragedy.
“Our hearts remain with the families and loved ones impacted by this tragedy,” the governor stated. “May the souls of the departed rest in peace.”
Authorities have launched a full-scale investigation to uncover the causes of the incident and ensure justice is served. Residents of Ibadan have been urged to remain calm as security agencies continue their inquiries into the unfortunate event.
The tragic loss of lives during what was meant to be a joyous occasion has sent shockwaves across the state, prompting calls for stricter safety measures at public events.
