Tragedy struck in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Wednesday when a stampede at a carnival in the Bashorun area claimed multiple lives, including those of children. The exact number of casualties remains uncertain, but viral videos circulating online captured the chaos and grief of the incident.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, confirmed the tragedy in a statement hours later, describing it as a dark day for the state.

“Earlier today, an incident occurred in Islamic High School Basorun, the venue of an event organised for families. Sadly, a stampede at the venue has led to multiple loss of lives and injuries,” the governor said.

“This is a very sad day for us here in Oyo State. We sympathise with the parents whose joy has suddenly been turned to mourning due to these deaths,” Makinde added.

The governor assured residents that immediate steps were being taken to prevent further casualties. Security personnel were deployed to restore order at the venue, while medical teams and ambulances were dispatched to treat the injured and transport victims to hospitals.

Makinde also revealed that the organisers of the event had been apprehended and would face prosecution.

“While investigations are ongoing, the primary organisers of the event that led to this stampede have been taken into custody,” he said. “Anyone directly or remotely involved in this disaster will be held accountable. Please remain calm as the security agencies investigate this unfortunate incident. Our hearts remain with the families and loved ones impacted by this tragedy. May the souls of the departed rest in peace.”

The Oyo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, disclosed that victims had been taken to several medical facilities across Ibadan for treatment. He urged parents searching for their children to visit the listed hospitals with proper identification.

The hospitals include:

• Patnas Hospital, Basorun

• Western Hospital, Basorun

• Ringroad State Hospital

• Molly Specialist Hospital

• University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan

The incident has left the state in mourning, with many calling for thorough investigations and stricter safety protocols at public events to prevent similar tragedies.