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Tragedy in Ibadan: Parents Grieve as Funfair Stampede Claims Lives of Many Children

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Tragedy in Ibadan: Parents Grieve as Funfair Stampede Claims Lives of Many Children

Tragedy in Ibadan: Parents Grieve as Funfair Stampede Claims Lives of Many Children

 

A devastating stampede during a children’s funfair in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, has left many families shattered as an unconfirmed number of children lost their lives on Wednesday. Preliminary reports indicate that over 30 children may have perished, with many others sustaining injuries in the tragic incident.

The stampede occurred at Basorun Islamic High School, the venue for a privately organized funfair. Oyo State’s Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, confirmed the incident and stated that the state government had swiftly mobilized a rapid response team to handle the situation.

Victims were transported to various hospitals within the Ibadan metropolis for urgent medical care. Oyelade expressed appreciation to the Commissioner for Health, Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, for immediately deploying response teams to assist at the scene. “The state government will do all in its power to stand by the victims of this fateful incident during this trying period,” Oyelade stated.

The commissioner emphasized that the government was not involved in the planning of the event, nor was the Ministry of Health requested to provide logistical support. He stressed the importance of proper coordination when organizing large events, particularly those involving children and elders.

The exact number of casualties remains unclear as authorities await a detailed report from the Commissioner of Police. Concerned parents have been advised to visit the following hospitals with valid identification to locate their children:

  • Patnas Hospital, Basorun
  • Western Hospital, Basorun
  • Ringroad State Hospital
  • Molly Specialist Hospital
  • University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan

Eyewitness accounts suggest that the stampede occurred as attendees, mostly children, tried to force their way through the main gate of the school. Sources revealed that the event was initially planned for 5,000 children, but over 7,500 showed up, overwhelming the organizers. Some parents and children reportedly spent the night at the venue in anticipation of the event.

An administrative officer at Patnas Hospital, Olufeyemi Tolulope, recounted the harrowing scenes: “Six children were brought in around 8 a.m. Four were confirmed dead, while two are currently receiving treatment. One has since been discharged, and the other is stable and recovering.”

The tragedy has left parents and families in deep anguish. A bereaved parent at one of the hospitals cried out, “I did not imagine this would happen. We were together yesterday, not knowing it would be the last time. My daughter cannot be dead. Doctor, please wake her up.”

Parents are now calling on the government to expedite the release of their children’s bodies for burial. At the University College Hospital, Ibadan, grief-stricken families mourned their losses, with many still seeking confirmation of their children’s fates.

The private organizers of the event have come under scrutiny for failing to manage the overwhelming turnout. The tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the need for meticulous planning and safety measures at large gatherings, particularly those involving vulnerable groups such as children.

As investigations continue, the government has urged the public to remain calm, assuring that comprehensive support will be provided to all affected families during this period of mourning.

 

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Police Track Down Suspect In Viral Defamation Case, Reaffirm Commitment To Justice

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Police Track Down Suspect In Viral Defamation Case, Reaffirm Commitment To Justice

The Nigeria Police Force has apprehended a suspect linked to a viral social media video containing serious and unsubstantiated allegations against transport union leader, Musiliu Ayinde Akinsanya.

The arrest followed a formal petition submitted by Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo, who called for a discreet and thorough investigation into what he described as a deliberate attempt to tarnish his reputation. The petition was prompted by a Facebook video circulated by one Jamiu Akinsanya, also known as Siyan, a factional member of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW). In the video, the suspect falsely alleged that MC Oluomo was involved in the murder of a pregnant woman in the Oshodi area of Lagos.

Acting swiftly, the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Federal Intelligence Department (FID) directed an immediate investigation. Operatives of the FID Intelligence Response Team (IRT), led by CSP Kasumu Rilwan, commenced a coordinated manhunt, which culminated in the suspect’s arrest in the Ikorodu axis of Lagos State.

Police sources disclosed that upon his arrest, the suspect admitted that the allegations contained in the viral video were entirely fabricated. He reportedly expressed remorse and appealed for leniency during interrogation.

Subsequently, the FID/IRT Legal Officer, A.O. Fadipe, obtained a remand order from the Igbosere Magistrate Court to enable further investigation and facilitate the arrest of any other individuals connected to the case.

The suspect has since been remanded at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre.

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React To Your Donation Rumour Of SUV Car Meant For Monarchs To Individual, Group Tells Ogun Women Affairs Commissioner

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React To Your Donation Rumour Of SUV Car Meant For Monarchs To Individual, Group Tells Ogun Women Affairs Commissioner

 

In what it described as rumour, a concerned group under the aegis of ‘The Good People of Agbado Community’ has called on the Ogun state Commissioner for women affairs and social welfare, Hon. Adijat Motunrayo-Adeleye to react to the alleged SUV car meant for traditional rulers, been donated to one Mr. Oladayo Shyllon in the community.

The group, in a statement issued on Friday by the Chairman, Elder’s Council of the group, Amodu Theophilus Olayiwola JP tittled ‘SUV Allocation to Mr Oladayo Shyllon (An Error Awaiting Correction) described the development as imposition of the said person, who has been removed as an Oba by a court of competent jurisdiction, to deprive the respected obas of their rights.

You will recall that, on the 9th of April, the state governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun distributed 40 SUV Cars to ogun monarchs to enhance their mobility in a show of appreciation of support given to his administration.

It recalled that, It is on record that Mr. Shyllon filed an appeal which is still pending in the court of appeal Ibadan Suit No. CA/IB/75/2000, noting that, the last Ogun State chieftaincy law recognized only Olu of Agbado, and Alagbado of Agbado is not known to Agbado people and not recognized by government gazette.

The group however, threaten to work against the commissioner in her interest to contest for House of Representatives for Ifo/Ewekoro Federal constituency.

“It is my believe that Ogun state is not an animal kingdom where people just act out their personal desire with disregard for the rule of law and the judicial system, Olayiwola stated”.

“It is important you make categorical and clear statement to the people so we do not begin to see you as an enemy of the people and equitable justice”, he added.

“We know our vote is our power, if you don’t respond to this damaging allegation, we shall surely mobilize against you as the race to 2027 heats up”, he threatened.

Reacting to the development, the commissioner denied and distanced herself from the allegation, and challenged the group to do their findings and act on any outcome, pointing out that, she is not the state governor the at distributed cars to buy he monarchs.

According to her “I’m not Ogun state government, and if they have any issue, they should direct it to the government. They are just shallow minded. I didn’t donate any car to anyone, they should go and get their fact right, because i don’t know what they are talking about

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A GOVERNOR AMONG THE PEOPLE: HOW MOHAMMED UMARU BAGO IS REDEFINING POWER, UNITY, AND GRASSROOTS GOVERNANCE IN NIGER STATE

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A GOVERNOR AMONG THE PEOPLE: HOW MOHAMMED UMARU BAGO IS REDEFINING POWER, UNITY, AND GRASSROOTS GOVERNANCE IN NIGER STATE

 

 

Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago is steadily rewriting the playbook of leadership in Niger State, anchoring governance not in distance or elitism, but in proximity, inclusion, and direct engagement with the people.

His administration has reinvigorated traditional institutions by consistently engaging emirates and royal fathers as active partners in governance. Beyond symbolism, these engagements reflect a participatory model rooted in cultural legitimacy and community trust.

Security remains central to his agenda. Regular high-level meetings—bringing together security agencies, traditional rulers, and key stakeholders—serve as operational platforms for coordination and response. Backed by funding and follow-through, this collaborative approach underscores his belief that unity is essential to achieving lasting peace.

In a politically and socially diverse state, Governor Bago has projected a bridge-building leadership style. He has repeatedly emphasized that religion must not be exploited as a tool for division or an excuse for failure. By maintaining visible engagement with both Muslim and Christian communities, his administration promotes inclusion and mutual respect.

His grassroots approach to governance is one of his defining traits. Within a relatively short period, he has visited all 25 Local Government Areas—more than once—taking governance directly to communities. These visits go beyond routine inspections; they involve listening, resolving immediate concerns, and maintaining a physical presence. From crossing rivers by ferry to reach remote areas like Agwara to spending extended time in rural communities, he has narrowed the gap between leadership and citizens.

Politically, he has prioritized cohesion over factionalism. His engagement spans national figures to ward-level stakeholders, reflecting an inclusive style. His support for women in governance is evident in the emergence of female vice chairpersons across the 25 LGAs, while his outreach to past and present leaders signals continuity and respect for institutional memory. His appointments, often extending beyond close allies, reinforce a broader message of collective ownership of governance within the All Progressives Congress.

Beyond policy, Governor Bago’s leadership carries a personal dimension. He is widely noted for acts of compassion—supporting families in times of need, assisting with medical and educational challenges, and offering help without publicity. These gestures, though often undocumented, have strengthened his connection with the people.

Today, on both national and international platforms, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago is increasingly recognized for his emphasis on accessibility, performance, and peacebuilding. His approach reinforces a simple but powerful idea: leadership should connect, not isolate.

In a country where citizens continue to demand responsive governance, his model offers a perspective worth noting—one that places engagement, service, and unity at the center of public leadership.

 

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