- Safiu Kehinde
Oyo state Police Command has confirmed the death of 35 minors at the ill-fated children funfair at Ibadan, Oyo state, yesterday.
This was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the Command’s spokesperson, Adewale Osifeso.
The event, organized by the former wife of Ooni of Ife, Queen Naomi Silekunola, under her foundation, Women in Need of Guidance and Support (WINGS), turned out tragically after stampede occurred due to overpopulation at the Islamic High School, Basorun area of Ibadan.
Osifeso, however, confirmed the arrest eight individuals- including Queen Naomi and the Principal of the school where the incident occurred.
They are currently detained at the Iyaganku Police Station.
The Command spokesperson also disclosed that six victims currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed medical facility.
“Following the tragic stampede on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at the Islamic High School, Basorun, Ibadan, the Oyo State Police Command has arrested eight individuals for their roles in the incident.
“In furtherance of the above, the case has since been transferred to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department, Iyaganku with the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge leading the investigations.
“So also, residents around the axis are advised not to panic as they would witness high level patrols and visible Police presence to prevent hoodlums from taking advantage of the unfortunate situation.
“Finally, the Oyo State Police Command sympathizes with all the families and loved ones affected by the tragedy and assures the good people of the State that Justice will be served accordingly.” the statementv partly read.