Victor Ezeja
Oyo State Government says it has launched an investigation into a tragic stampede at an event in Ibadan, the state capital, which reportedly led to death of not less than 32 children.
The incident occurred on Wednesday morning at the Islamic High School in Bashorun, Ibadan.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe event, organised by Women In Need of Guidance and Support (WiINGS) Foundation linked to ex-queen of the Ooni of Ife, Prophetess Naomi Shikemi, was intended to give N5,000 to 5,000 children, but a large crowd gathered. Some families were said to have arrived a day before and passed a night at the venue to benefit from the giveaway.
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In several videos shared on social media, eyewitnesses reported that the crowd at the venue of the event became uncontrollable when the gate was opened on Wednesday morning, leading to a stampede that resulted in many people falling and being trampled.
In a statement on Wednesday, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, expressed sadness over the tragic incident and sympathised with the parents who were affected.
He said steps have been taken to ensure no further deaths were recorded including deploying security agents to restore order at the venue and also medical personnel. Hi
The governor added that main organisers of the event that led to the stampede have been taken into custody as investigations are ongoing to unravel the circumstances that led to the unfortunate incident.
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“I want to reassure our people that anyone directly or remotely involved in this disaster will be held accountable. Please remain calm as the security agencies investigate this unfortunate incident,” the governor pleaded.
Twenty four hours after the tragic incident, it has continued to generate reactions from Nigerians who call for accountability.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with seven years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Master's degree in Mass Communication.
