The tragic stampede at a children’s funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State, which claimed the lives of several children and left many injured, is a heart-wrenching reminder of the pervasive hunger and poverty in our nation. The incident occurred during a program organized by Women in Need of Governance and Support (WINGS), led by Queen Naomi Silekunola, and held at Islamic High School, Bashorun. What was meant to be a joyous occasion turned into a scene of despair, exposing the dire socioeconomic conditions that plague Nigeria.
Eyewitness accounts reveal that desperation drove many attendees to the venue as early as 6 a.m., with some camping overnight in hopes of securing a spot. The tragic stampede occurred as the crowd surged violently, leaving children—many underage—trampled in the chaos. The scene, littered with shoes and clothes, bore silent witness to the harrowing event.
Dr. Tofunmi Ogunronbi, a former gubernatorial candidate and a renowned advocate for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), expressed deep sorrow over the incident. He remarked, “This tragedy is a glaring indictment of the deep poverty that has been weaponized in our country. When citizens, especially children, have to fight for survival at a community event, it shows how far we’ve fallen in providing for the most basic human needs.”
Dr. Ogunronbi emphasized the need for leaders to adopt deliberate and sustainable policies that tackle poverty at its root. He criticized the tendency of political leaders to prioritize personal gains over national welfare. “Too often, our leaders surround themselves with political loyalists who exploit the system rather than meaningful Nigerians and technocrats who can provide lasting solutions. They fail to recognize that political power is fleeting, and when their tenure ends, these same loyalists will abandon them and align with the next ruling party,” he said.
The Oyo State Government has expressed condolences to the affected families and swiftly mobilized a rapid response team to provide medical assistance to the injured. Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, confirmed that victims were transported to various hospitals within Ibadan for urgent care.
Dr. Ogunronbi further called for action, stating that Nigeria cannot afford to continue this trajectory of weaponized poverty. He urged leaders to focus on building a legacy of hope, equity, and sustainable development for future generations. “Nigeria is all we have. We must unite to rebuild and prioritize the well-being of our citizens rather than perpetuating a cycle of servitude that robs our children of their future. This tragedy should be a turning point for us all,” he added.
As Nigerians mourn this devastating loss, it is crucial to move beyond grief and demand accountability from leaders at all levels. Addressing poverty and inequality is not just a moral obligation but a necessity for the survival of the nation. Let this incident serve as a wake-up call to build a Nigeria where children can dream freely, and every citizen has a fair chance at a dignified life.
This is a call to action for all Nigerians—leaders and citizens alike—to collaborate and create a legacy that upholds the values of unity, prosperity, and sustainable development.
