Bukola Saraki

Ex-Senate President, Bukola Saraki has called on the authorities to conduct a probe into the Ibadan stampede that claimed the lives of some children on Wednesday.

Recall that tragedy struck at the Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Wednesday during a funfair organized by the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, Naomi Shikemi.

On Thursday, the Oyo State Police Command confirmed that 35 persons were dead, while six others were in critical condition.

However, reports emerged on Friday indicating that the death toll has risen to 40, while many others are still hospitalized.

Reacting, Saraki, in a statement on his official X microblogging platform on Friday, called for a thorough investigation

“This tragedy demands a thorough investigation by the authorities to ensure accountability and prevent such incidents from ever happening again,” he said.

“As a father, I can’t imagine the unbearable pain those parents are going through.”

The former lawmaker extended his “deepest condolences to the grieving families, the people of Ibadan, and the Oyo State Government.

“We pray for healing for the injured and strength for everyone impacted by this terrible loss.”