Photo Credit:TVC NEWS/Reuters
A Christmas funfair in Ibadan, Nigeria, turned into a nightmare on Wednesday when a crowd crush tragically claimed the lives of 35 children and left six others hospitalized. What was meant to be a joyful event became a devastating reminder of the dangers of overcrowding.
The event, held in the Bashorun district at the Islamic High School, had promised cash handouts of 5,000 naira (about $3) and free food for attendees. Over 5,000 children reportedly gathered, with desperate families arriving as early as 5:00 a.m. to secure a spot. The chaos began when the main organizer, Naomi Silekunola—a well-known figure in the city—arrived, triggering a surge as people scrambled to enter.
Police have arrested eight individuals, including Silekunola, in connection with the incident. Authorities are investigating the sequence of events leading to the tragedy. President Bola Tinubu has extended his condolences to the grieving families and called for a thorough inquiry.
Parents searching for their missing children have been urged to check local hospitals, where medics are working tirelessly. At one hospital, six children were admitted, but tragically only two survived. “We were just hoping for some help for Christmas,” one heartbroken parent said.
The incident underscores the harsh realities of Nigeria’s economic crisis, which has pushed many families to the brink. Over 10,000 people reportedly showed up at the event, desperate for the modest cash and food handouts. Unfortunately, this is not the first tragedy of its kind. Similar incidents this year have highlighted the need for better crowd management and safety protocols.
As Ibadan mourns, the government faces mounting pressure to ensure such devastating events do not happen again. For now, the city grieves the
loss of its youngest, brightest stars.
