A devastating stampede at a school fair in southwestern Nigeria has claimed the lives of 35 children, with several others injured.
The tragic incident occurred on Wednesday at the Islamic High School in Basorun, Oyo State, near Lagos, leaving the nation in mourning.
Details of the Incident
The stampede unfolded during a family event attended by thousands of people. According to police spokesperson Osifeso Adewale, the chaos began when event organizers started distributing food and gifts, triggering a surge in the crowd.
Among the injured, at least six individuals are receiving medical care. Authorities have detained several people for questioning, including the school principal and Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, founder of the organizing NGO Women in Need of Guidance and Support.
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu expressed profound sorrow, extending condolences to the families of the victims.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde described the incident as a “heartbreaking tragedy,” calling for immediate measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.