Ooni Mourns Ibadan Stampede, Remembers Ex-Queen Naomi’s Dedication to Children

The Palace of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enita Ogunwusi, has expressed deep sympathy to the government of Oyo State, the organisers, and the families of the children who tragically lost their lives in the stampede at the children’s funfair held at Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, on Wednesday, December 18, 2024.

Oba Ogunwusi shared in the sorrow of the affected families, offering prayers that “Olodumare grants them fortitude to bear this trying time.”

This message was conveyed through a statement on Thursday by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare. In it, the revered monarch also extended condolences to Agidigbo FM, owned by Oriyomi Hamzat, Women in Need of Guidance and Support (WINGS) led by former Ooni’s queen Ms. Naomi Silekunola Ogunseyi, and all bereaved families.

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

The Palace also expressed solidarity with the Oyo State Government, commending Governor Seyi Makinde for his swift response during the tragic event.

“This tragedy underscores the urgent need for collaborative efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of our children across Nigeria,” the statement said.

Otunba Olafare also highlighted the late Ms. Naomi Ogunseyi’s dedication to children during her time as queen, noting her passion for organizing events that supported less fortunate children in Ile-Ife every December.

The Palace pledged support for all efforts aimed at bringing healing and comfort to those affected by the loss. Furthermore, it called for swift action to prevent future tragedies, emphasizing the importance of safety standards and child welfare policies in schools.

The Palace expressed concern over the unprofessional behavior of some bloggers who sensationalized the tragedy instead of upholding journalistic integrity.

“While this is a time for solemn reflection and shared responsibility, we are dismayed by some bloggers who have chosen to sensationalize this tragedy. The spread of unverified and distorted information only exacerbates the grief of the affected families,” the statement continued. “We urge media practitioners to report with compassion, professionalism, and respect for the victims.”

The Ooni encouraged all stakeholders, including government officials, the media, and citizens, to come together in empathy and constructive dialogue. “Let us honor the memories of the departed by fostering a culture of care, respect, and accountability in our communities.”

Finally, the Ooni offered words of encouragement to the organisers, saying, “Rather than being discouraged by this sorrowful outcome, which was meant to show love to children and assist parents during the yuletide, Naomi Silekunola, Oriyomi Hamzat, and their co-organizers should remain committed to such programs, but with better planning and execution in the future. Important lessons must be learned.”

“May this sorrowful moment inspire a renewed commitment to protecting our children, preserving our shared humanity, and upholding the values of truth and empathy,” the statement concluded.