Nigerian President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed profound sadness over the tragic incident at the Children’s FunFair in Ibadan, which resulted in the loss of innocent lives and left many injured.
According to the statement released by the Special Adviser to President on information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, while extended his heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of Oyo State, as well as to the grieving families who have lost their beloved children.
The President, in this moment of mourning, stood in solidarity with the affected families and offered prayers that the Almighty God will grant peace to the souls of those who have departed in this unfortunate event.
Tinubu who urgently directed the relevant authorities to investigate the circumstances of this tragedy thoroughly, emphasised that its imperative to determine whether negligence or deliberate actions contributed to this painful incident, ensuring transparent and accountable process.
The President urged the Oyo State Government to take every necessary measure to prevent such a tragedy from reoccurring.
Among the essential actions are a comprehensive review of all public events’ safety measures, strict enforcement of safety regulations, and regular safety audits of event venues.
Furthermore, President Tinubu called on event organisers to prioritise the safety of all attendees, especially children, stressed the importance of integrating professional security, protocol, and logistics at events to ensure the utmost safety of all participants.
“Our children’s safety and well-being remain paramount. No event should ever compromise their safety or take precedence over their lives,” President Tinubu asserts.
Meanwhile, the Oyo State Police Command says it is investigating the circumstances surrounding the alleged death of 32 children during a stampede at a funfair in Ibadan, the state capital, on Wednesday
This was as just the police said death toll has increased to 35 while 6 are critically injured. Adewale Osifeso, spokesperson of the Oyo command, revealed that investigation continues.
Report gathered from multiple eyewitness accounts that the stampede occurred when participants rushed to gain access to the venue of the event reportedly organised by the ex-queen of the Ooni of Ife, Prophetess Naomi Shikemi, and an Ibadan-based broadcaster, Oriyomi Hamzat.
Investigations by PUNCH Metro also showed that the victims were stampeded to death while trying to break through the main gate of the school. It was further gathered that provision was made for 5,000 children but the number that turned up for the event was reportedly exceeded the number.
