The festive atmosphere in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, often celebrated for its vibrant community and warmth, was marred by a devastating tragedy during the 2024 End-of-Year Children’s Funfair. The event, meant to bring joy to families, ended in heartbreak for Mrs. Adijat Adewumi, fondly called “Iya Ola,” who lost her two children in a tragic stampede.
In an emotional interview with Sunday Vanguard, Mrs. Adewumi shared her sorrowful tale, recounting how a spiritual warning she had received days before the event now weighs heavily on her heart.
“Just a few days before the funfair, a pastor from a white garment church—someone I had never met—approached me with a vision. He urged me to fast and pray for three days. At the time, I saw it as just another spiritual exercise, not a warning of the tragedy that awaited me,” she said, her voice shaking with grief.
The funfair, organized by Queen Naomi Silekunola, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, had been a much-anticipated event for families in Ibadan. For Mrs. Adewumi, it was an opportunity to give her children a day of happiness amidst economic struggles.
“I heard about the event through Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat’s popular program. It felt like a chance for my children to experience joy and escape our harsh realities, even if just for a moment,” she said, her voice tinged with regret.
But the day quickly turned into a nightmare. As the gates to the event opened, a surge of eager attendees overwhelmed the entrance.
“I pushed my children ahead, wanting them to enjoy every moment, but chaos erupted as the crowd surged. I lost sight of them in an instant. I called their names, but the noise was deafening,” she recounted, tears streaming down her face.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, Mrs. Adewumi reflected on the spiritual warning she had received, now realizing its significance.
“If only I had listened more closely. If only I had understood that it was a warning,” she lamented. “I am a Muslim, but I believe God speaks to us in different ways. I wish I had been more vigilant and responsive to that call.”
The heartbreaking incident has cast a shadow over what was meant to be a joyous celebration and serves as a stark reminder of the need for crowd control and safety measures at large public gatherings. For Mrs. Adewumi, the pain is immeasurable as she mourns the loss of her children, a part of her soul now gone forever.
