The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of Naomi Silekunola, the estranged wife of the Ooni of Ile-Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, following a tragic stampede at a children’s funfair she organised.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at the Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan.
TheNewsMatrics reports that Naomi organised the widely publicised funfair under the auspices of her WINGS foundation with promises of gifts and scholarships for participants and 0 to 13 years of age.
In a statement, police spokesperson in the state, Adewale Osifeso, reported that: “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.”
According to the statement, the stampede resulted in the tragic loss of 35 minors, with six additional children reported to be in critical condition and receiving various medical interventions.
“So far, 35 minors have been documented dead while 6 others are critically injured,” the statement noted, underscoring the severity of the incident.
Meanwhile, the state police command has taken significant steps in the investigation, transferring the case to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department, where the Deputy Commissioner of Police is leading the inquiry.
Osifeso, however, assured the public, stating, “Justice will be served accordingly.”
In light of the incident, the police have increased their presence in the area to maintain peace and security, while residents have been advised not to panic, as police patrols will be heightened to prevent any potential unrest.
“Residents around the axis are advised not to panic as they would witness high level patrols and visible Police presence,” the statement emphasised.
“The Oyo Police Command then expressed its condolences to the families affected by this tragedy, stating, “The Oyo State Police Command sympathises with all the families and loved ones affected by the tragedy.”
The command also provided contact numbers for emergencies, including a toll-free line at 615 and control room numbers: 08081768614, 09054133071, and 09061299291.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting discussions about the safety protocols at large gatherings, especially those involving children.
As investigations proceed, many residents are calling for accountability and improved safety measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
