A tragic stampede at a carnival in the Bashorun area of Ibadan, Oyo State, has reportedly claimed the lives of many children. The incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, with victims rushed to various hospitals across the city.
The exact number of casualties remains unconfirmed at the time of this report. However, sources indicate that the stampede happened as a crowd tried to gain entry to the venue of a private children's fun fair scheduled for Wednesday. Some parents had arrived with their children as early as Tuesday, leading to a chaotic scene.
Efforts to get a response from the Public Relations Officer of the Oyo State Police Command, Adewale Osifeso, were unsuccessful. However, the Oyo State Government has confirmed the incident through a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade.
According to Oyelade, the stampede led to the loss of several lives, mostly children, while others sustained injuries. He added that the state government mobilized a rapid response team to address the situation, and victims were transported to hospitals for urgent medical attention.
Parents seeking information about their children have been directed to visit the following medical facilities with valid identification:
- Patnas Hospital, Basorun
- Western Hospital, Basorun
- Ringroad State Hospital
- Molly Specialist Hospital
- University College Hospital (UCH)
The Oyo State Government has urged the public to remain calm as authorities work to manage the situation and assist affected families.
