Tragedy struck at a holiday funfair in southwestern Nigeria on Wednesday as several children lost their lives in a stampede, authorities confirmed.
The incident occurred at the Islamic High School in Basorun, Oyo State, near Lagos. State governor Seyi Makinde stated that security forces were on site and had apprehended the event organizers.
“Earlier today, a tragic incident unfolded at Islamic High School Basorun during a family event. Unfortunately, a stampede resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries. Today is a day of great sorrow,” Makinde expressed.
He extended his condolences to the grieving parents, whose happiness had been shattered by the loss of their loved ones.
Nigeria’s national emergency services dispatched a team to aid the victims in need.
Injured children were transported to nearby hospitals, where parents were urged to search for missing individuals.
Footage from the scene depicted a crowd of predominantly children observing as some were carried away from an open field.
The event organizers were identified by local media as the Women In Need Of Guidance and Support Foundation, which had organized a similar event for children the previous year.
The group had planned to host up to 5,000 young attendees at this year’s event, promising prizes such as scholarships and other gifts, as reported by Oyo-based Agidigbo FM radio station.
An investigation has been launched into the stampede’s causes, with Makinde stating that those responsible, whether directly or indirectly, will be held accountable.
Published – December 18, 2024 11:38 pm IST
