35 Children Dead in Tragic Crush at Christmas Funfair in Ibadan, Nigeria

Tragedy struck in Ibadan, south-west Nigeria, as a crush at a Christmas funfair claimed the lives of 35 children, with six others hospitalized, according to local police reports. The catastrophic incident unfolded at the Islamic High School in the Bashorun district, where a crowd of thousands had gathered for the event.

Organizers had promised cash handouts of ₦5,000 (approximately $3) and free food to 5,000 children, drawing an overwhelming turnout of over 10,000 people. Witnesses say the situation escalated when the main organizers arrived to commence the program, resulting in a deadly stampede.

While the exact sequence of events remains unclear, police confirmed the arrest of eight individuals connected to the event, including its lead organizer, Naomi Silekunola, a prominent figure in Ibadan.

Condolences and Investigations

President Bola Tinubu has extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, describing the incident as a tragic loss. The president has ordered a thorough investigation to uncover the crush’s circumstances.

Meanwhile, the Oyo State Government has mobilized resources to treat survivors at hospitals across Ibadan. Authorities have urged parents searching for their missing children to check with local hospitals.

Grim Accounts from Hospitals

Medical personnel at one hospital confirmed that six children were admitted, but only two survived, with four succumbing to their injuries. At another facility, a doctor reported seeing three lifeless bodies.

Parents shared harrowing accounts of arriving at the venue as early as 5:00 AM, five hours before the event began. Many hoped to secure the promised money and food amid Nigeria’s worsening economic crisis, pushing millions into poverty.

A Recurring Tragedy

This incident is the latest in a string of fatal crowd surges linked to public handout distributions in Nigeria. In March, two students lost their lives at Nasarawa State University during a rice distribution program, while 23 others were injured. Days later, seven people were killed in Bauchi State when a philanthropist’s cash giveaway attracted an uncontrollable crowd.

Earlier in February, five people died in Lagos when a Nigerian Customs Service auction of seized rice turned chaotic, leaving dozens injured.

Authorities have vowed to hold those responsible accountable and implement measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.