Agidigbo FM, a popular radio station in Ibadan, Oyo State, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident that occurred during the children’s funfair organized by the WINGS Foundation at Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan.
In an official statement by Olayinka Abdul Wahab, the station’s Director of Programmes on December 18, 2024, the station clarified its involvement in the event while offering heartfelt condolences to the families of those affected.
Abdul Wahab stated, “The management of Agidigbo FM received the news of the tragedy with great shock and wholeheartedly commiserates with the families involved.”
Contrary to reports circulating online, Agidigbo FM emphasized that it was not the organizer of the funfair but merely one of the media outlets engaged to promote the event.
Abdul Wahab explained, “Amidst the tragedy, the news making the rounds says that Agidigbo FM is the organizer of the children funfair. However, the management wishes to state that Agidigbo FM is not the organizer of the event but one of the media outfits used to promote the event.”
The statement detailed efforts made by the station to mitigate the situation upon learning of the overwhelming crowd that had gathered at the venue before 5 a.m. “Agidigbo FM, the people’s voice, used all media strategies to sensitize the populace with jingles and public service announcements, urging people to stop going to the venue,” Abdul Wahab noted.
The organizers of the funfair were also commended for attempting to address the crisis. According to the statement, they deployed security personnel, medical officials, and other agencies to manage the unfolding tragedy and assist those affected.
In light of the unfortunate incident, the management of Agidigbo FM appealed to the public to avoid spreading misinformation about the event. “This is not the time to spread misinformation,” the statement read, urging people to contact the station for verified information.
The statement concluded with a call for prayers and support for the victims. “We implore the general public to continue to pray for the speedy recovery of those in various hospitals and sympathize with the families of those who lost their lives,” Abdul Wahab added.
The tragic incident at the funfair has cast a pall over the city, with many reflecting on the need for improved crowd management at public events.
