Stampede at Ibadan Children’s Christmas Party Hosted by Queen Naomi Claims 32 Lives

• The event aimed at feeding the less privileged ended tragically with a stampede resulting in the deaths of over 32 children and numerous injuries.

• A large event at Islamic High School in Basorun, aimed at 5,000 children, reportedly attracted over 7,500 participants, leading to chaos and a fatal stampede.

On Wednesday, December 18, 2024, a tragic incident occurred during a charity event organized by Olori Naomi, the estranged spouse of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, in partnership with Agidigbo 88.7 FM, Ibadan.

The event, aimed at providing meals for the underprivileged, turned catastrophic when a stampede resulted in the deaths of over 32 children and left numerous others injured.

Hosted at Islamic High School, Basorun, the event was intended to serve 5,000 children but attracted more than 7,500 attendees. As participants hurried to enter the venue, chaos ensued, culminating in the deadly stampede.

Governor Seyi Makinde expressed profound condolences to the families affected and assured the public that swift actions had been implemented to avert further incidents.

“We have deployed security agents to restore order, medical personnel to treat the injured, and ambulances to the scene. The event has been stopped, and attendees escorted out of the venue,” the governor’s statement indicated.

Additionally, Governor Makinde committed to ensuring that all parties accountable for the tragedy, whether directly or indirectly involved, would face repercussions.

“I want to reassure our people that this incident will be thoroughly investigated, and those involved will face justice,” he stated, urging the community to remain composed as security forces carry out their inquiries.

This sorrowful event highlights the critical need for effective planning and crowd management at large-scale gatherings.