Many children feared dead in Ibadan carnival stampede

Many children have reportedly lost their lives in a stampede that occurred at a carnival in Ibadan, Oyo State capital.

The incident occurred in the Bashorun area of Ibadan on Wednesday.

The number of casualties have not been ascertained as at the time of filing this report.

However, it was learnt that the victims have been rushed to some hospitals within Ibadan metropolis.

It was further gathered that the carnival was billed to take place on Wednesday but some parents took their children to the location on Tuesday, while some arrived the venue in the early hours of Wednesday.

The rush to enter the venue resulted in a stampede, with many children feared dead.

But, the Oyo State Government confirmed the development in a statement.

Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, while confirming the incident, noted that the state government has responded to the situation.

He said: “A stampede occurred at the private children’s fun fair held at Basorun Islamic High School, leading to loss of lives, mostly children, with some others injured in the early hours of today.

“The State Government swiftly mobilised a rapid response team following the breaking of the incident.

“Victims have been swiftly transported to various hospitals within the Ibadan metropolis for medical attention.

“Parents who are concerned about the whereabouts of their children are urged to check the following medical facilities in Ibadan where children affected were taken for proper medical attention with valid means of identification:

– Patnas Hospital, Basorun
– Western Hospital, Basorun
– Ringroad State Hospital
– Molly Specialist Hospital
– University College Hospital (UCH).”