Oriyomi Hamzat, Chairman of Agidigbo FM in Ibadan, collapsed from shock after witnessing the tragic stampede at a children’s funfair in Ibadan. The incident, which occurred on December 18, 2024, at the Islamic High School Bashorun, claimed the lives of 35 children and critically injured six others.
Hamzat, overwhelmed by the chaos and the sight of children being trampled, was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.
The event, organized by Prophetess Naomi Silekunola Ogunswusi, quickly spiraled out of control when children rushed to collect gifts. Witnesses described how the overcrowding, with more attendees than anticipated, led to the tragedy. Hamzat, who had attended the funfair, collapsed when the stampede began.
According to a source from Agidigbo FM, the emotional and physical toll has severely affected him.
“He couldn’t bear the sight of children collapsing during the chaos. He fell and was rushed to the hospital,” the source said.
The Oyo State Police Command detained Prophetess Naomi Silekunola and six others in connection with the incident. Authorities assured the public of a thorough investigation to determine the cause and hold those responsible accountable.
The news of Hamzat’s hospitalization and the loss of young lives has shaken the community. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar expressed deep sorrow, mourning the children who had attended the event for fun but instead met a tragic fate. He urged prayers for the affected families and justice for the victims.
As the community grieves, concerns about the adequacy of safety measures and the responsibilities of event organizers continue to grow. This tragedy underscores the need for thorough planning and crowd management to prevent similar disasters.
Our thoughts remain with the grieving families and Oriyomi Hamzat as he recovers from this traumatic experience. May the deceased rest in peace, and may the injured find healing and support.
