Stampede at Ibadan Festive Party Sparks Outcry Over Safety Failures

A A joyful event meant to bring festive cheer to thousands of children in Ibadan ended in tragedy on Wednesday morning when a stampede at Islamic High School, Basorun, led to the deaths of several children. The Christmas party, organized by Agidigbo 88.7 FM and Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, has raised serious questions about safety protocols and crowd control at public events.

The event, widely promoted by Agidigbo FM, promised gifts and scholarships for 5,000 children. However, the large turnout quickly overwhelmed the venue. According to eyewitnesses, the crowd surged during the distribution of gifts, leading to a chaotic scene where children were trampled underfoot. One witness recounted, “There was no proper crowd control. The excitement turned into panic, and before we knew it, children were screaming and falling.”

Multiple fatalities have been reported, with at least seven children confirmed dead and several others hospitalized at the University College Hospital, Ibadan. The distressing scene of grieving parents and injured children has left the community shaken.

The tragedy has prompted swift action and a strong response from the Oyo State government. In a statement, Governor Seyi Makinde expressed his condolences and announced immediate measures. “We sympathise with the parents whose joy has suddenly been turned to mourning due to these deaths,” he said. To prevent further chaos, the venue was swiftly evacuated, and security forces were deployed to restore order.

Governor Makinde also confirmed that the event’s organizers had been detained for questioning. “Anyone directly or remotely involved in this disaster will be held accountable,” he assured.

As investigations continue, many residents and safety experts are calling for stricter regulations around event planning and crowd management. Critics argue that better preparation and risk assessment could have averted the tragedy. A local parent lamented, “These events are meant to bring happiness to our children. How did it go so terribly wrong?”

This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety protocols during large gatherings. The community now waits for answers—and justice—as it mourns the loss of young lives cut tragically short.