An unidentified commercial motorcycle operator popularly called okada has reportedly lost his life when a black Mercedes saloon car rammed into a pharmacy in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
The accident occurred around 2 pm on Saturday at Osuntokun junction, opposite Zenith Bank.
The pharmacy store where the car rammed into was destroyed, while two other vehicles of customers parked in front of the pharmacy were also affected.
An eyewitness who pleaded anonymity said: “An overspeeding black Mercedes saloon car coming from Osuntokun Avenue, crossed the main Bodija-UI road and went headlong into the pharmacy near Grandex stores, instantly killing an okada rider who was dropping off his passenger at the pharmacy.
“The driver of the Mercedes was severely injured and has been rushed to University College Hospital (UCH).”
A team of surgeons in the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, led by Prof. Olayinka Shittu, has successfully performed an intricate procedure to reconstruct a urethral stricture in a 50-year-old patient.
The UCH Public Relations Officer (PRO), Mrs Funmi Adetuyibi, made this known in a statement in Ibadan yesterday.
Adetuyibi said that the patient had suffered a pelvic bone fracture in a road traffic accident, resulting in a complex injury requiring specialised expertise.
According to Adetuyibi, Shittu, a consultant surgeon and urologist, said reconstructing a urethral stricture was an extremely challenging procedure, even for the most skilled surgeons worldwide.
Shittu remarked that it demanded a high level of expertise in reconstructive urology and could take several hours to complete.
The urologist emphasised that in spite of the daunting task, the UCH Ibadan team persevered, leveraging alternative power sources to maintain critical hospital functions.
He praised the hospital’s management for its efforts.
“Although the power situation has significantly impacted our ability to perform major interventions over the past year, our management team has found ways to adapt.
“We’re grateful for their dedication to ensuring our patients receive the best possible care,” Shittu said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that urethral stricture is a narrowing of the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine out of the body.
NAN gathers that the narrowing can cause obstructed urine flow leading to various symptoms and the causes include injury or trauma to the urethra, infection, inflammation and congenital conditions.
Ibadan-based Hypeman, Adedigba Toluwalade Ademola, popularly known as Twinkle, has announced the first three dates for the monthly rave in Ibadan for 2025.
The dates for the monthly rave are as follows: January 25th, February 15th, and March 22nd.
Speaking with The Nation, Twinkle noted that the fact that the past editions of the rave were a massive success is a testament to what people should expect.
“We had seven editions last year and we shutdown everywhere on all occasions. We went from 500 people to around 1500 people for each rave.
“What I can tell you confidently is that this year will definitely be bigger,” he noted.
The Champagne Rave is a monthly rave party that brings together a vibrant community. This event primarily attracts individuals from Generation Z, who come together to enjoy the energetic atmosphere.
Each month, attendees gather to experience the unique blend of music, dance, and social interaction. The party offers a space for young people to express themselves and connect with others who share similar interests.
The Atinutobi Initiative, a non-governmental organization, founded by Mrs. Kikelomo Idowu, has embarked on a philanthropic project aimed at supporting widows and less privileged single mothers in Ibadan.
The Convener disclosed in a media statement that The project, titled “Help Us Feed a Few,” was done in honour of her late mother, Deaconess Atinuke Onireti. She noted that her life of kindness and generosity motivated this annual gesture of giving back to society.
According to Mrs. Idowu, the outreach held November 26, at the WOCOM Church, Jericho, Ibadan, where over 30 women were empowered with food supplies, cash gifts, brand new clothes, and other forms of support.
The Convener explained that the project’s impact extends beyond the immediate beneficiaries. “Our projects create ripples of hope and relief within society. By addressing the immediate needs of vulnerable groups, we alleviate their burdens and help restore their dignity.” She noted.
Mrs. Idowu added that this act of kindness fosters a sense of community, inspires others to give back, and contributes to the broader goal of reducing poverty and inequality.”
Looking ahead, the Atinutobi Initiative plans to expand its reach by introducing skill acquisition programs, educational scholarships for underprivileged children, and mental health support services for women and children says Mrs. Idowu
“Our vision is to become a beacon of hope, transforming lives and building a stronger, more compassionate society,” She emphasized.
The Atinutobi Initiative’s commitment to supporting vulnerable groups is a testament to the power of kindness and generosity.
The Convener made it known that as the organization continues to grow and expand its reach, it remains dedicated to creating a lasting impact in the lives of those it serves.
Residents of Omotara’s Compound, Ori Eru, Idikan, in Ibadan North West Local Government Area, Oyo State, have shared the heartbreaking details of how a 60-year-old man, known as ‘Baba Yunus,’ his wife, and their eight-year-old grandson, Samuel, were burned to death in a fire early Friday morning.
Describing the incident as devastating and sorrowful, the residents said the victims cried for help but were unable to escape due to a burglar-proofed window, which was their only exit. The intense flames prevented anyone from getting close enough to assist.
In an emotional interview with The Nation’s correspondent, Segun Showunmi, some residents expressed their grief, explaining that the fire was too severe to allow any rescue efforts.
Bose Ayinde, who also live inside the house that got burnt while narrating her ordeal said, “The fire started in the midnight when we have all slept off, we suddenly hear a loud voice “e gba wa o! e gba wa o!, we even thought it was thieves that came to our house, we woke up ourselves that thieves are around unknowingly to us that our house has caught fight.
“When we rushed out, we realised it was a fire, we couldn’t help the victims because the fire was so heavy to the extent that no one can even move close to it, we are very sad because both husband, wife and their grandson got burnt to death.”
Also, Alfa Aliu Omotara, who reside in a house directly opposite the burnt house said, “We suddenly heard the victims shouting fire! fire! in the midnight around 3pm, the fire started from their parlor, all our efforts to rescued them proved abortive.
“NEPA used to give us light between 12:30am to 6:30 in the morning. When the fire started, the victims started shouting for rescue, the couples slept inside the room but the fire started from their parlour, so, there was no other exit for them to go out except through the parlour because the exit in the room has been blocked with loads.
“If the exit door inside the room was free, though the victims belonging would burn but they will escaped, their efforts to escaped through the window proved abortive because of the burglary in the window, the wife died first, the husband and son came to the window shouting for help, we were downstairs looking at them upstairs, but we couldn’t help them because the fire was so heavy that no one can even move close to it.
“Its over 60 years that the house has been built, the owner of the house was a friend to my father. Baba Yunus and his wife are good person, they were easy going, since over 10 year they have been living in this area, no one hear about them fighting.
“The incident was a bitter and sorrowful experience for people in this area. People should be careful with fire, particularly electricity.
Also speaking, Mrs Dupe Ajibade said, The incident was a sad incident because those that lost their lives were good person, particularly the wife, she was so lovely and kind.
“The incident happened around 3pm when we heard a loud noise, if not for people in the area that tried their best to curtail the fire, all houses close to the area would have got burnt.
“The house has already being razed before the arrival of the fire fighter, the incident was a great lost, we busted into tears when body of the deceased who were burt to death by the fire body was laid on ground.
“We heard the husband was cooking with hot plate, he slept off during the process, there was light because I charged my phone around 12am in the midnight. Nobody can enter or rescued them because the fire was heavy. The husband, 60 years is a bike rider, while his wife sells provision.”
Stampede Claims Scores of Lives at Children’s Funfair in Ibadan
Scores of people, predominantly children, lost their lives, while many others sustained varying degrees of injuries during a children’s funfair party on Wednesday at the Islamic High School, Basorun, Ibadan.
The event, organized by Queen Naomi Silekunola, an ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, was promoted by an Ibadan-based radio station, Agidigbo FM. It was aimed at benefitting 5,000 children with promises of N5,000 cash gifts and free meals.
However, chaos ensued as over 15,000 people stormed the venue before dawn, far exceeding the planned capacity. The incident occurred when parents, desperate to gain access for their children, caused a stampede at the entrance.
Sources revealed that the situation spiraled out of control around 6 a.m. when the organizers announced that the 5,000-attendee limit had been reached. In response, the agitated crowd surged forward, leading to a deadly stampede that left many children dead on the spot and others injured.
Victims were rushed to nearby hospitals, including Patnas Specialist Hospital, Best Western Hospital, Molly Specialist Hospital, Ringroad State Hospital, and the University College Hospital (UCH), all in Ibadan.
At Patnas Specialist Hospital, four children were confirmed dead on arrival, while one survivor remained in critical condition as of Wednesday morning.
The chaotic scene also disrupted traffic along the Basorun axis, with thousands of attendees, mainly women and children, seen walking long distances. A distraught mother was spotted wailing after losing her 7-year-old son in the tragedy.
When reporters visited the venue, personal items such as shoes, slippers, bags, and clothing were scattered across the area, indicating the chaos. Police officers and patrol vans were stationed at various points, while the venue remained in disarray, with decorations strewn on the ground.
Despite the event being called off, small groups of women and children lingered around the school premises, refusing to speak to reporters for fear of arrest.
Mrs. Oluwafemi Akinyele, the Admin Officer of Patnas Specialist Hospital, confirmed the deaths, expressing sorrow over the tragedy. The incident has sparked widespread mourning and calls for better crowd management at such large-scale events.
She said: “If I’m not mistaken, they were brought in by few minutes past 8, they were brought in numbers of 5, 4 dead immediately, one was resuscitate back. He’s a male. Four females and a male.
“The male is still in the ward currently. I don’t really know his condition because I was a bit agitated but he’s fine. He’s eating. I fed him myself and he’ll be discharged any moment from now.
“Six were brought in here so far. Five were brought in at first but the Red Cross ambulance brought in 1 afterwards.
“Four were dead and 2 males. Out of the two that survived, one has been discharged already but the other one is responding to treatment.
“Some parents took their dead kids away. When they arrived, we were told the kids fainted but, after testing them, we discovered they were brought in dead.”
A mild drama played out at the Patnas Hospital when The Nation visited to see the affected children.
Apparently enraged, Mr Azeez, a father of one of the affected children who was seated in a ward with his wife, watching their son, Azeez who had survived the incident, was almost slapping the wife and beating her while he tried to recount his ordeal as caused by his wife.
But, the situation was brought under control when he was told of the number of kids who had died and how many parents were yet to locate their children.
When the aituation simmer, speaking with The Nation in an interview, Mrs Azeez Omolewa whose 7 year old son, Mubarak, was receiving treatment said the situation could have been saved if the organisers had not allowed people stockpile at the entrance gate for too long.
She said “We got there around 6AM this morning. The issue was that they didn’t open the gate, that was what caused the problem. We were left choking and the crowd was too much.
“There wouldn’t have been problem, but because they left everyone stocked together. At a point, they were about to open the gate and people tried to force their way in, but immediate they tried to forced the gate close which eventually led to many people falling down as we were pushing ourselves.
“Even before they opened the gate, many people were already fainting at the gate due to to huge crowd, but things got complicated when people started falling on each other and they were marching some people.”
Also, at Best Western Hospital, Ibadan, it was gathered that some children who were brought it had died before arrival while some others were receiving attention.
At Molly Specialist Hospital, The Nation gathered that none of the children brought in were admitted as they were referred elsewhere.
A source who pleaded anonymity at the entrance gate said, the hospital could not admit any of the victim because it had no space in his children ward as at the time of the incident.
However, a parent, Olalekan Salam who arrived at the rime of the visit said he was referred to Molly from the University College Hospital and the Adeoyo Specialist Hospital after he could not find his wife and six years old son who left the house to attend the funfair.
Speaking on the development, Governor Seyi Makinde described the day as a sad day for the state due to the multiple loss of lives and injuries.
He said the state has taken steps to ensure no further deaths are recorded at the venue by deploying security agents to restore order at the venue.
Makinde said “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.
“This is a very sad day for us here in Oyo State. We sympathise with the parents whose joy has suddenly been turned to mourning due to these deaths.
“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.
“While investigations are ongoing, the primary organisers of the event that led to this stampede have been taken into custody.
“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.
“Our hearts remain with the families and loved ones impacted by this tragedy. May the souls of the departed rest in peace. Amen.”
Earlier, the State Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal had led some government officials to the scene of the incident and the nearby hospitals to see some of the victims.
The deputy had stressed that the government was not involved in the planning or organising of the event in any way while assuring that the state will ensure that those involved will not be spared.
Also, worried by the development, the state government while mourning the tragic loss
swiftly mobilised a rapid response team following the breaking of the incident.
Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade confirmed that the victims have been swiftly transported to various hospitals within the Ibadan metropolis for medical attention.
He appreciated the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, for immediately activating all available response teams to provide assistance at the scene of the incident, assuring that the state government will do all in its power to stand by victims of the fateful incident through this trying period.
He noted that the state government was not involved in any of the planning, neither was the Ministry of Health requested to provide any logistics to support the private children’s end of the year funfair.
It emphasized the importance of proper coordination when organizing events of such magnitude, especially those involving children and elders.
The Commissioner indicated that they are currently awaiting a detailed report from the Commissioner of Police to clarify the total number of victims involved in the unfortunate incident.
The commissioner said parents who are concerned about the whereabouts of their children are urged to check the medical facilities in Ibadan where children affected were taken for proper medical attention with valid means of identification.
When contacted, the spokesman, Oyo State Police Command, Adewale Osifeso, said: “investigation is in progress. Updates would be provided accordingly, please.”
An inferno at the weekend ravaged a section of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Olorunda-Aba in Lagelu Local Government Area during their yearly Christmas Carol service.
The church’s Evangelist, Ayobami Adeleke, his wife and their children lost their certificates while other valuables worth millions of naira were also lost.
Adeleke said they were rounding off the service when the incident happened.
The incident affected the Children’s church and other apartments that housed the men. The cause of the fire was not known yet.
General Manager, Oyo State Fire Services, Rev Akinyemi Akinyinka said the agency received a distressed call at 21: 50hrs last Friday and he immediately deployed to the scene of the incident. The agency is investigating the cause of the fire, he added.
The festive season is a wonderful time to discover new places and create lasting memories with family and friends. Whether you’re looking to relax, seek adventure, or immerse yourself in culture, there are many amazing places to visit.
From beautiful gardens and historic landmarks to lively zoos and resorts, there’s something for everyone. This holiday season, take the opportunity to visit these special spots and enjoy the beauty of nature, history, and culture.
Here are five places you can visit during this festive season to make long-lasting memories with your loved ones in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo state:
1. UI Zoo
The University of Ibadan Zoological Garden is the perfect place for families to visit this festive season. It offers a fun and educational way to witness wildlife up close and create lasting memories. Home to a wide range of animals, the zoo features majestic mammals such as lions, giraffes, hyenas, chimpanzees, baboons, and other primates.
Bird lovers will be thrilled to see colourful species like peacocks, ostriches, parrots, and many more. For those curious about reptiles, the zoo hosts crocodiles, tortoises, and snakes, among many other fascinating creatures. Visiting the UI Zoo is a delightful way to explore the beauty of nature, learn about animals, and enjoy quality time with loved ones.
2. Agodi Gardens
If you’re searching for the perfect place to relax and celebrate this festive season, Agodi Gardens in Ibadan is a must-visit destination. This beautiful park is the ideal spot for families to enjoy nature, fun, and relaxation all in one place.
Agodi Gardens offers plenty of activities to make your visit unforgettable. Children can have a great time at the playground, while families can unwind and share meals at the picnic areas. For those who love water fun, the water park is a big hit, with pools and slides for everyone to enjoy.
3. Ilaji Resort
If you’re looking for a special place to celebrate the festive season, Ilaji Resort in Ibadan, Oyo State, is the perfect choice. This resort combines luxury, culture, and fun to create a memorable holiday experience for everyone.
Ilaji Resort offers something for every visitor, whether you want to relax, enjoy quality time with family, or take part in exciting activities. During the festive season, the resort becomes even livelier with special events like live music shows, family-friendly activities, and holiday-themed celebrations. These events make your visit even more enjoyable and unforgettable.
4. Bower’s Tower
Bower’s Tower, one of Ibadan’s most famous landmarks, sits at the highest point in the city. This historic tower is a perfect mix of history, stunning views, and peaceful surroundings, making it an ideal destination for a holiday outing.
At the top of Bower’s Tower, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree view of Ibadan, showcasing the city’s colourful rooftops and green landscape. During the festive season, the tower attracts people seeking a calm and beautiful escape. The cooler weather adds to the charm, making the experience even more enjoyable.
5. Odu’a Museum and Hall of Fame
This festive season, explore the rich history and culture of the Yoruba people by visiting the Odu’a Museum and Hall of Fame. As a perfect spot for families and tourists, this museum offers a blend of tradition, art, and history that provides a unique and enriching experience.
No fewer than six persons were injured and hospitalized in a road accident in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
The victims was said to have severely injured in the accident involving a waste disposal vehicle, a commercial cab and a motorcycle that occurred around 5 pm on Tuesday along the Apete-Akufo Road in Ido Local Government Area.
The Nation gathered the accident happened when the waste disposal vehicle lost control due to brake failure.
The vehicle rammed into an oncoming cab, popularly known as a Micra and a commercial motorcycle.
In the process, six people, including three pupils returning from school, two apprentices accompanying the waste disposal vehicle and one other person, were severely injured.
An eye witness said the injured victims were rushed to a nearby hospital in the area for treatment.
No fewer than 15 persons lost their lives while several others were injured in road accidents in Lagos and Ibadan.
In Ibadan yesterday, the accident involved a trailer conveying tiles and a lorry loaded with soft drinks at Oke Eleshin, Amuloko on the Akanran Road, Ibadan.
Among the injured was a pupil, whose mother reportedly died in the crash.
Four of the injured, who were conveyed to the Amuloko City Hospital nearby, included two primary school pupils who were treated as outpatients while two with severe injuries had been admitted.
The dead were conveyed to another hospital.
According to a staff member of the Oyo Road Transport Maintenance Agency (OYRTMA), who spoke on a condition of anonymity at the scene, “The accident occured in the early hours of today (yesterday). It was caused by brake failure of the trailer that was descending the slope of the road.
In Lagos, nine persons were confirmed dead and others injured in separate incidents on Sunday.
Four of the victims were said to have died in a fire outbreak at a lounge in Ajegunle; three lost their lives during a multiple auto accident on the Oshodi-Apapa Expressway and the others were killed after a school’s fence collapsed at Ejigbo.
It was learnt that the fire occurred around 7:45am, at Baale Road, Olodi-Apapa.
The four victims who were burnt beyond recognition, were said to be staff members of the bar.
Lagos Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Benjamin Hundeyin, a Superintendent of Police, confirmed the incidents
“Having lost control, it crushed a tricycle, popularly called Keke NAPEP. Another lorry carrying soft drinks, which was coming from behind it, tried to avoid hitting the trailer in front, and in the process crushed another Keke NAPEP. We learnt that six persons died while five persons sustained injuries. They have been conveyed away from here,” he said.
The accident caused a serious gridlock with passengers alighting and walking. Many have parked their vehicles by the road side pending when security operatives will clear the vehicles from the road. Aside from the two articulated vehicles and the two tricycles involved, two other cars were damaged in the multiple accident.
Sympathisers who were prevented from burning the vehicles blamed the drivers (who had escaped), claiming that the accident could have been minimised if the driver of the one vehicle that had brake failure had swerved into a ditch instead of facing the incoming tricycle.
Security operatives on ground included men of the Operation Burst, OYRTMA, Police, Road Safety, Amotekun, and local vigilantes.
Managing Director, Amuloko City Hospital, Dr. Raji Wale, said four patients were brought to his hospital.
He said: “The accident occured in the early hours of today (yesterday). Six victims were brought here with varying degrees of injuries. Some were taken to other hospitals. We were able to absorb the ones brought here. Two have been treated as out-patient victims and they have been stabilised and they have left. Two kids have been treated and they are downstairs. One of them, I was told, was in Keke NAPEP with his mother. The mother died.
“The other two with severe injuries have been admitted and are being treated. They have been optimised and we are taking care of them.’’
Commander, Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Oyo State Command, Mrs. Rosemary Alo, confirmed the accident but said she would confirm when her men briefed her appropriately.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Adewale Osifeso, said they would give a report on the accident later.
