Police arrest Ooni’s ex-wife over Ibadan stampede as death toll hits 35

The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of Naomi Silekunola, the former wife of the Ooni of Ile-Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi.

This is following a tragic stampede at a children’s carnival she organized that occurred on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at the Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, and resulted in the death of many minors, with others critically injured.

In a statement on Thursday, Osifeso Adewale, Oyo police spokesperson, said 35 children have died while 6 others sustained various degrees of injuries as a result of the incident.

According to him, “eight persons have since been arrested for their various involvements” in the event.”

Among those detained are Silekunola, aged 31, and Fasasi Abdulahi, the 56-year-old principal of the school.”

“The other individuals arrested include Genesis Christopher, Tanimowo Moruf, Anisolaja Olabode, Idowu Ibrahim, and Abiola Oluwatimilehin, with ages ranging from 25 to 52 years.”

The stampede has sparked an investigation, which has been transferred to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department.

The Deputy Commissioner of Police is leading the inquiry.

Osifeso assured the public that “justice will be served accordingly” and emphasized that police patrols would be heightened in the area to maintain security and prevent unrest.

The Oyo Police Command expressed condolences to the families affected by the tragedy and encouraged residents to stay calm, offering contact numbers for emergencies.

Earlier, the Oyo State government announced that those responsible for organizing the event have been taken into custody.

This was revealed in a statement issued by Governor Seyi Makinde, where he assured that the government would take all necessary actions regarding the incident.

Queen Naomi usually organizes such events annually non-governmental organisation, Wings Foundation, primarily in Akure, where she resides. However, this particular event, which turned chaotic, was held in Ibadan.

Reports indicate that overcrowding at the Islamic High School, Bashorun, led to a stampede, with some individuals fainting due to the intense heat.

Meanwhile, the Palace of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has expressed sympathy to the families of children whose lives were lost at the funfair in Ibadan

Ooni’s spokesman expressed sympathy with the Government of Oyo State and the families of the children whose lives were lost in the tragedy.

The Palace also showed solidarity with the ex-queen, saying she genuinely cared for children and organised similar events in Osun State when she was queen.

The Palace spokesman said, “While at the Ile Oodua here as a queen, Miss Naomi Silekuola Ogunseyi demonstrated love and care to the children of Ile-Ife through similar events which she executed passionately to give succour to children of indigent parents every December periods like this.

“The House of Oduduwa pledges to support all efforts aimed at bringing solace and healing to those affected by this devastating loss.
“The House of Oduduwa calls for immediate actions to prevent such unfortunate incidents in the future, emphasizing the need for rigorous adherence to safety standards and child welfare policies in educational institutions.”

“While the situation calls for solemn reflection and collective responsibility, we would want to express dismay at the unprofessional conduct of some bloggers who have chosen to sensationalize the tragic incident rather than uphold journalistic integrity.

“The House of Oduduwa encourages all stakeholders, from government officials to the media and citizens, to unite in compassion and constructive dialogue. Let us honour the memories of the departed by fostering a culture of care, respect, and accountability in our communities,” the statement added.