Delhi, December 20, 2024 (Punjab Khabarnama Bureau): At least 35 children were killed and six others critically injured in a crowd crush at a funfair in Nigeria on Wednesday, CNN reported, citing police.
An Oyo state police spokesperson said on Thursday that eight people have been arrested for their alleged involvement in the incident at the Islamic school in Ibadan. According to police, the event’s main sponsor is among those who have been arrested.
The organizers of the event, identified as the Women in Need of Guidance and Support (WING), expected to host 5,000 children below the age of 13 years at the free event, where they could win prizes like scholarships, CNN reported, citing local radio station Agidigbo FM.
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu offered his condolences through a statement from his spokesperson, CNN reported citing state news agency NAN News. He also urged the Oyo State Government to take necessary steps to stop a similar tragedy from take place.
The statement said, “In this moment of mourning, President Tinubu stands in solidarity with the affected families and offers prayers that the Almighty God will grant peace to the souls of those who have departed in this unfortunate event.”
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde called it “a very sad day.” In a statement shared on Facebook, he stated, “We sympathise with the parents whose joy has suddenly been turned to mourning due to these deaths.”
Summary: A tragic crowd crush at an Ibadan funfair in Nigeria claimed 35 children’s lives and left 6 others critically injured.