Ibadan funfair tragedy: Ooni mourns victims, supports ex-queen

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims who tragically lost their lives during a funfair event in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The stampede, which occurred on Wednesday at the Islamic High School, Basorun, left at least 35 people dead, according to the Oyo State Police Command.

The event, organized by Wings Foundation, a charity owned by the former queen of Ife, Naomi Silekunola, turned tragic, leading to her arrest alongside seven others.

The foundation had aimed to provide a joyous occasion for families but instead witnessed chaos and loss.

In a statement issued on Thursday by the state’s Police Public Relations Officer, Adewale Osifeso, the arrests were confirmed as part of ongoing investigations into the incident.

Reacting to the tragedy, Oba Ogunwusi expressed his deepest sympathies to the families of the deceased and the Government of Oyo State.

In a statement released by his spokesperson, Moses Olafare, the monarch also showed solidarity with his ex-wife, acknowledging her history of organizing child-focused events in Osun State during her tenure as queen. The Ooni emphasized that her intentions were always rooted in genuine care for children.

This tragic event has left the community in mourning, as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the stampede.

Ogunwusi also pledged to support all efforts to bring solace and healing to those affected by the deaths.

Ibadan funfair tragedy: Ooni’s ex-wife, others face probe as 32 children feared killed

“We share in the grief and pains that have engulfed the affected families. We pray that Olodumare grants them the fortitude to bear this trying time.

“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,” the statement read.

The monarch also condemned what he called the sensationalisation of the tragic incident and called for solemn reflection and collective responsibility of all citizens.

“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.