The Oyo State Government said it arrested organisers of the children’s funfair where an unknown number of children died as a result of stampede on Wednesday.

Peoples Gazette learnt that the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, Queen Naomi Silekunola, in collaboration with Agidigbo 88.7 FM, Ibadan, owned by Oriyomi Hamzat, organised the event.

Reacting to the development in a statement on Wednesday, the state governor Seyi Makinde, said that the government had launched an immediate investigation into the incident.

“Earlier today, an incident occurred in Islamic High School Basorun, the venue of an event organised for families. Sadly, a stampede at the venue has led to multiple loss of lives and injuries,” the statement noted.

Sympathising with the family of victims, the governor noted that efforts had been made to stop further deaths and support victims.

The statement noted, “We have taken steps to ensure no further deaths are recorded at this venue by deploying security agents to restore order at the venue. We also deployed medical personnel and ambulances to the venue. The event has been stopped, and attendees have been escorted out of the venue. We are taking all realistic measures to ensure that the venue is secured.”

Mr Makinde further assured that everyone involved in the incident would be held accountable.

The governor said, “I want to reassure our people that anyone directly or remotely involved in this disaster will be held accountable. Please remain calm as the security agencies investigate this unfortunate incident.”