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December 19, 2024
Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, was a key organiser of the tragic children's festive party.
The Palace of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has reacted to the deaths of 35 children during a stampede which occurred at the ill-fated children's festive party in Ibadan, Oyo State.
SaharaReporters on Wednesday broke the news about how tragedy struck at the Islamic High School in Bashorun, Ibadan when a stampede occurred during a children's Christmas party.
Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, was a key organiser of the tragic children's festive party.
Additionally, Agidigbo 88.7 FM, owned by Oriyomi Hamzat, had actively promoted the event in the days leading up to the devastating incident.
The State Governor, Seyi Makinde had also confirmed the arrest of the party’s organizers and vowed to ensure the culprits face wrath of the law for the tragedy they caused.
The police had also confirmed the arrest of Naomi Silekunola and seven others over the ill-fated event.
The prominent monarch, in a statement issued on Thursday by his media aide, Moses Olafare expressed sympathy to the families of children whose lives were lost at the funfair.
He wrote: “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.”
“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.