The Ibadan Funfair Tragedy, which claimed the lives of 35 minors and left 6 others critically injured, remains a dark chapter in the history of public events in Nigeria. This happened on Wednesday 18 of December 2024.
The funfair, organized at an amusement park in Ibadan, Oyo State, aimed to provide entertainment and recreation for families and children during a festive season.
Promoted as a family-friendly event, it drew thousands of visitors from the city and neighboring areas. Parents brought their children in large numbers, eager to create joyful memories.
However, the day turned tragic when a poorly maintained carousel, one of the main attractions, malfunctioned. Witnesses reported hearing a loud cracking sound before the ride collapsed, causing chaos and panic.
The mechanical failure led to the deaths of 35 children and left 6 others with critical injuries. Emergency responders faced difficulties accessing the site due to overcrowding and poor planning.
The tragedy sparked outrage among the public and calls for accountability. Families of the victims demanded justice and reforms to prevent future occurrences.
The government of Oyo State initiated an inquiry, which led to the suspension of the organizers and a review of safety protocols for public events.
The Oyo state police command has issued arrest of 6 persons connected to the organization of the events. The statements reads:
Re: Ibadan Children’s Funfair Tragedy’, read in part: “Sequel to the stampede incident recorded on Wednesday, 18 December 2024, at the Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, venue of the family event organised by Wings Foundation and media partners Agidigbo FM, the Oyo State Police Command wishes to inform the good people of the state that eight persons have since been arrested for their various involvements.”
“These persons include the main event sponsor, Prophetess Naomi Silekunola (female, age 31); Fasasi Abdulahi (male, age 56, School Principal, Islamic High School, Ibadan); Genesis Christopher (male, age 24); Tanimowo Moruf (male, age 52); Anisolaja Olabode (male, age 42); Idowu Ibrahim (male, age 35); and Abiola Oluwatimilehin (male, age 25).”
The case has been transferred to the homicide section of the Police department and further investigation are still ongoing.
The event was initially arranged to cater for 5,000 persons, however over 20,000 persons turned up for the event including children.
