A joyous celebration turned tragic on Wednesday morning as a stampede at a children’s Christmas party in the Bashorun area of Ibadan resulted in multiple fatalities, predominantly among children. The event, hosted by Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, an ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, was abruptly halted following the incident.
Governor Seyi Makinde expressed deep sorrow in a statement shared on X, confirming the loss of lives and injuries. He revealed that security personnel and medical teams were swiftly deployed to the venue, Islamic High School Basorun, to restore order and provide assistance.
“Earlier today, an incident occurred at Islamic High School Basorun, the venue of an event organised for families. Sadly, a stampede at the venue has led to multiple loss of lives and injuries,” he stated.
Makinde assured residents that the organisers of the event have been taken into custody pending an investigation. “Anyone directly or remotely involved in this disaster will be held accountable,” he added.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes, with over 5,000 attendees present at the venue. Reports on social media suggest that many parents camped overnight with their children in anticipation of free gifts. A Facebook user noted that children were being trampled, with victims rushed to hospitals, including the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan.
Another social media user blamed economic hardship for the overwhelming turnout. “Poverty is killing this country,” they wrote.
The event was reportedly organised by Queen Naomi under the banner of her WINGS Foundation, with announcements made on Agidigbo FM. The Ibadan-based radio station distanced itself from the tragedy, emphasizing its non-involvement beyond airing promotional jingles.
“She came to Agidigbo to announce the event,” a station staff member told the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ). “The event has now been cancelled, and Agidigbo’s own Christmas party is ongoing elsewhere.”
Victims of the stampede were transported to multiple medical facilities, including Patnas Hospital, Western Hospital, and Ringroad State Hospital. Parents searching for their children have been advised to visit these facilities with valid identification.
As investigations continue, the tragedy has sparked widespread grief and anger across Oyo State. Social media platforms are flooded with condolences and demands for accountability, highlighting the need for improved event management and safety measures.
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