Tragedy Strikes Ibadan Funfair: 35 Children Dead in Crowd Crush
In a tragic incident at a funfair in Ibadan, southwest Nigeria, thirty-five children lost their lives due to a crowd crush, with an additional six individuals hospitalized, according to police reports.
The event, promoted as having free entry, attracted an overwhelming number of participants, leading to chaos as attendees struggled to gain access. Local residents estimate that over 5,000 children were present when the incident occurred, coinciding with the arrival of the main event organizers.
Details surrounding the events leading to the deadly crush remain unclear. Authorities have apprehended eight individuals involved in organizing the funfair, including prominent local organizer Naomi Silekunola.
The Oyo state government has confirmed that victims were transported to various hospitals throughout Ibadan for medical attention following the crush at the Islamic High School in the Bashorun district. Officials reported "multiple loss of lives and injuries" during this devastating event.
Authorities are advising parents concerned about their children’s safety to check with local hospitals.
