The Oyo State Police Command has detained Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, a former queen of the Ooni of Ife, along with six others, as the investigation into a deadly stampede at a funfair in Ibadan unfolds. The tragic incident, which occurred on Wednesday, resulted in the deaths of 35 children, with six others sustaining serious injuries.
The funfair, organized by Silekunola’s non-governmental organization, Women in Need of Guidance and Support, took place at the Islamic High School in Basorun, Ibadan. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the event drew a significantly larger crowd than anticipated, with over 7,500 attendees, despite organizers planning for only 5,000 children. This overwhelming turnout led to chaos as attendees rushed to enter the venue.
Police Public Relations Officer Adewale Osifeso confirmed the detentions, stating that among those arrested are Silekunola, aged 31, and Fasasi Abdulahi, the 56-year-old principal of the hosting school. The other detainees range in age from 25 to 52 years. Osifeso reported that the investigation has been transferred to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department, with a Deputy Commissioner of Police leading the inquiry.
In light of the tragedy, the police have increased their presence in the area to maintain order and have advised residents not to panic. The command expressed condolences to the families affected by the stampede, which has left many parents distraught.
Parents of the deceased children have been granted custody of their bodies from various hospitals, including Patnas Hospital, Western Hospital, and the University College Hospital. Many parents had kept vigil at the event, and some recounted harrowing experiences during the stampede. One survivor described a chaotic scene where attendees were trampled while trying to enter the venue.
Following the incident, Oriyomi Hamzat, the owner of Agidigbo FM in Ibadan and a media partner for the event, was reportedly hospitalized due to the shock of the tragedy. He issued a statement clarifying that Agidigbo FM was not the event’s organizer but only helped promote it. He confirmed that efforts were made to alert attendees about the crowd situation.
President Bola Tinubu expressed sadness over the incident and directed a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of children during public events and extended condolences to the grieving families.
President Tinubu’s wife, Oluremi, also conveyed her sympathies, praying for the recovery of the injured and the comfort of those who lost loved ones. The Ooni of Ife’s palace issued a statement expressing sorrow over the loss of life and called for improved safety measures at public events.
The palace emphasized the need for collaboration in ensuring the safety and well-being of children, urging organizers of similar events to prioritize safety in future planning.
