Saraki Wants Ibadan Stampede Be Thoroughly Investigated

As death toll of children at Ibadan funfair event hits 40, former Senate President Bukola Saraki has called on relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate the stampede that claimed the lives of minors on Wednesday.
Recall that tragedy struck at the Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Wednesday during a funfair organized by the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, Naomi Shikemi.
On Thursday, the Oyo State Police Command confirmed that 35 persons were dead, while six others were in critical condition.
However, reports emerged on Friday indicating that the death toll has risen to 40, while many others are still hospitalized.
Reacting, Saraki, in a statement on his official X platform on Friday, called for a thorough probe.
“This tragedy demands a thorough investigation by the authorities to ensure accountability and prevent such incidents from ever happening again,” he said.
“As a father, I can’t imagine the unbearable pain those parents are going through.”
The former lawmaker extended his “deepest condolences to the grieving families, the people of Ibadan, and the Oyo State Government.
“We pray for healing for the injured and strength for everyone impacted by this terrible loss.”
Earlier President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had directed relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate the circumstances that led to the Ibadan Funfair tragedy.
Extending his heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of Oyo State, President Tinubu in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Thursday also condoled with grieving families who lost their beloved children in the incidence.
The President who expressed profound sadness over the tragic incident at the Children’s FunFair in Ibadan, which resulted in the loss of innocent lives and left many injured, called on event organisers to prioritise the safety of all attendees, especially children.