Tragedy struck on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at a charity event organized by Olori Naomi, the estranged wife of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, in collaboration with Agidigbo 88.7 FM, Ibadan.
The event, intended to feed the less privileged, ended in disaster when a stampede claimed the lives of over 32 children and left many others injured.
The event, held at Islamic High School, Basorun, was designed to cater to 5,000 children but reportedly drew over 7,500 participants. Chaos erupted as attendees rushed to gain access to the venue, leading to the fatal stampede.
Governor Seyi Makinde expressed deep sympathy for the victims’ families and assured the public that immediate measures had been taken to prevent further casualties.
“We have deployed security agents to restore order, medical personnel to treat the injured, and ambulances to the scene. The event has been stopped, and attendees escorted out of the venue,” a statement from the governor read.
Governor Makinde further pledged that all individuals responsible for the tragedy, whether directly or indirectly, would be held accountable.
“I want to reassure our people that this incident will be thoroughly investigated, and those involved will face justice,” he said, urging residents to remain calm as security agencies conduct their investigations.
This heartbreaking incident underscores the importance of proper planning and crowd control in events of this magnitude.
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