Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has described the stampede that happened in Ibadan where over 20 children reportedly died as a disaster.
It was gathered that an event was organised to distribute Christmas gifts to children at Islamic High School, Basorun, Ibadan on Wednesday.
However, tragedy occured when attendants thronged the venue and started rushing the gifts.
Multiple lives were said to have been lost in the stampede as many others were injured.
Reacting, Makinde mourned those who lost their lives, saying the organisers of the event have been arrested.
He said, “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.
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.
We have taken steps to ensure no further deaths are recorded at this venue by deploying security agents to restore order at the venue. We also deployed medical personnel and ambulances to the venue.
The event has been stopped, and attendees have been escorted out of the venue. We are taking all realistic measures to ensure that the venue is secured.
While investigations are ongoing, the primary organisers of the event that led to this stampede have been taken into custody.
I want to reassure our people that 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. Amen.”
