Ibadan stampede: 35 dead, 6 in critical condition – Police

A tragic stampede at a funfair in Ibadan has claimed the lives of 35 minors, with six others critically injured. The Oyo State Police Command confirmed the incident on Thursday, stating that the victims were among attendees at the event organized by Prophetess Naomi Shikemi, the former Queen of the Ooni of Ife. The funfair, held at Islamic High School, Bashorun, ended in chaos, leaving the community devastated.

Police Public Relations Officer, SP Osifeso Adewale, revealed in a statement that the injured minors are undergoing intensive medical care. “So far, 35 minors have been documented dead, while six others are critically injured and on various medical interventions,” he stated. The stampede reportedly occurred as attendees struggled to exit the overcrowded venue.

In the wake of the incident, the police have arrested eight individuals linked to organizing the event. Those detained include Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, the principal of Islamic High School, Fasasi Abdulahi, and six other collaborators identified as Genesis Christopher, Tanimowo Moruf, Anisolaja Olabode, Idowu Ibrahim, and Abiola Oluwatimilehin.

Authorities have launched a full investigation into the circumstances leading to the tragedy. The incident has sparked widespread grief and outrage, with many calling for stricter regulations to prevent similar occurrences in the future.