By Olusola Amodeni
Ibadan, Nigeria —The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the tragic death of 35 minors following a stampede at a funfair held in Ibadan. Six other children remain in critical condition and are undergoing intensive medical care.
The incident occurred at the Islamic High School, Bashorun, during an event organized by Prophetess Naomi Shikemi, the former Queen of the Ooni of Ife.
SP Osifeso Adewale, the Police Public Relations Officer, disclosed in a statement on Thursday that immediate investigations were launched, leading to the arrest of eight individuals connected to the event.
“So far, 35 minors have been confirmed dead, while six others are critically injured and undergoing various medical interventions,” Osifeso said.
Among those detained are Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, Fasasi Abdulahi (the school principal), and others, including Genesis Christopher, Tanimowo Moruf, and Idowu Ibrahim. Authorities have vowed to ensure accountability.
Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as crowds surged uncontrollably during the event, overwhelming security arrangements. Many attendees were left devastated as emergency responders arrived to handle the aftermath.
The police are urging calm while investigations continue, promising that those responsible will face justice. This tragic incident has sparked calls for tighter regulation of public gatherings to prevent future occurrences.
