Tragedy in Ibadan: 35 children killed in Christmas funfair stampede

What was meant to be a joyful pre-Christmas event in Bashorun, Ibadan, turned into a devastating tragedy when 35 children lost their lives in a stampede. The event, organized by a local radio station and a charity associated with Queen Naomi Ogunwusi, sought to distribute free food parcels to the first 5,000 attendees. Instead, the gathering spiraled into chaos when the crowd swelled far beyond expectations.

Thousands of families, some traveling for hours and arriving before dawn, gathered at the Islamic High School to secure a spot in the distribution line. Witnesses reported frantic scenes as the crowd overwhelmed the venue, with many attempting to force their way inside or scale the compound’s fence. Amid the commotion, children were knocked down, resulting in a catastrophic crush.

Abandoned sandals, torn books, and broken desks now litter the field—haunting reminders of the young lives lost. Grieving parents shared their pain with onlookers, with one father recounting the death of one child while another was hospitalized with injuries.

The police, who were reportedly not informed of the Christmas event, have taken the organizers into custody, citing a lack of proper safety planning. President Bola Tinubu has ordered an investigation, condemning the tragedy and emphasizing that children’s safety should never be compromised.

This incident highlights the severe economic hardship facing Nigeria, where inflation and rising food prices have driven families to desperation. Locals expressed their sorrow, noting that hunger and poverty pushed many to take such risks. Without immediate action to address these systemic issues, similar tragedies remain a looming possibility.

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