President Bola Tinubu has expressed his condolences over the tragic stampede at a children’s funfair in Ibadan, which left 35 minors dead and many others injured. While the loss of innocent lives is undeniably heartbreaking, it’s hard not to wonder how much the economic situation played a role in this tragedy. The stampede occurred at a funfair held at Islamic High School, Orita Bashorun, where desperate crowds likely gathered, hoping to grab freebies and perhaps escape the harsh realities of daily life.
President Tinubu, in his typical diplomatic manner, issued a statement expressing his condolences to the government and people of Oyo State. He also sent his heartfelt sympathies to the families of the children who lost their lives. But while sympathy is essential, it’s hard not to question whether we’re addressing the real cause of such incidents , the lack of proper safety measures and an underlying economic crisis that breeds desperation.
“President Tinubu has urgently directed the relevant authorities to investigate the circumstances of this tragedy thoroughly,” the statement read.
If event organisers were truly prioritising safety, this stampede could have been avoided entirely. But instead of real changes, we hear the usual suggestions about better safety regulations and audits, which are conveniently ignored until the next crisis hits.
And let’s not forget the uncomfortable truth that no one wants to say out loud: poverty, desperation, and an economy that’s failing to meet the needs of its citizens likely contributed to the stampede. People didn’t just show up for fun, they were there to take advantage of whatever they could get, driven by the harsh economic realities that have made many Nigerians desperate.
Tinubu’s sympathy is welcome, but it won’t bring back the lives lost or heal the wounds of the grieving families
