Principal Detained Over Fatal Ibadan Funfair Stampede

Authorities have detained Mr. Abdullahi Fasasi, principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, in connection with a tragic stampede that claimed the lives of several children during a school carnival. The event, organized by Naomi Silekunola, the estranged wife of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, turned disastrous when a crowd surge occurred, leading to the fatalities.

The Oyo State Police Command confirmed that Fasasi was invited for questioning on Wednesday afternoon and remains in custody at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Iyaganku, Ibadan. Investigators are reportedly probing the circumstances surrounding the event and whether adequate safety measures were in place to protect the children.

The stampede has left families and community members in deep mourning, with many questioning the planning and oversight of the event. Witnesses say the school grounds became overcrowded, creating dangerous conditions that ultimately led to the tragic incident. Critics have called for stricter safety protocols for events involving children, especially in educational institutions.

Naomi Silekunola, the event organizer, has yet to issue a public statement addressing the tragedy. The silence has sparked outrage among parents and community members, who are demanding accountability from all parties involved in organizing the ill-fated carnival.