Ola Akinwunmi
The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has expressed deep sadness over the tragic loss of lives following a stampede at a Christmas party in Ibadan, Oyo State.
In a statement, the NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq commiserated with the families of the victims, Governor Seyi Makinde, and the people of Oyo State.
The statement reads, “The NGF has joined the nation in mourning, calling for an immediate investigation into the stampede to prevent similar incidents in the future.”
The Forum also prayed for solace for the bereaved families and the souls of the children who lost their lives in the incident.
The stampede occurred at a children’s Christmas party hosted by Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, an ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, at the Islamic High School in Bashorun, Ibadan. Witnesses described chaotic scenes, with over 5,000 attendees present at the venue. Reports suggest that many parents camped overnight with their children in anticipation of gifts.
Governor Seyi Makinde has assured residents that the organizers of the event have been taken into custody pending an investigation. The incident has sparked widespread grief and anger across Oyo State, with many calling for improved event management and safety measures.
