Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic deaths of at least 40 children in a stampede at a funfair event in the Bashorun area of Ibadan, Oyo State.
The incident, which occurred on Wednesday at the Islamic High School, left six people critically injured, according to the Oyo State Police Command.
The funfair was organised by Naomi Silekunola, a former wife of Enitan Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife. Authorities have confirmed that Silekunola is currently in custody following the tragic event.
The police reported that the organisers had anticipated 5,000 attendees, but the crowd exceeded expectations, leading to the fatal stampede.
In a heartfelt statement on Thursday, Abubakar shared his grief over the loss of the young lives.
“How do we tell nearly three dozen parents and wards that the children they saw off with excitement to a holiday funfair in Ibadan will not be returning home, not even late for Christmas?” Abubakar asked.
He expressed solidarity with the affected families and prayed for their comfort, as well as for the recovery of the injured.
“I am heartbroken, like millions of our citizens, over the tragedy that befell children who only wanted to have some fun after the rigours of the school term had come to an end,” he said.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the families who may have had their beautiful flowers plucked from them so early in the day. I pray that Almighty God provides comfort to all affected families and friends and heals the injured.”
Abubakar also extended his condolences to the government and people of Oyo State and prayed for the souls of the deceased.
