The Palace of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has extended condolences to the families of children who tragically lost their lives at a funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Wednesday.
“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,” the monarch’s spokesman, Moses Olafare, said in a statement on Thursday.
The tragic incident occurred during a family event organized by Wings Foundation, owned by Naomi Ogunseyi, a former queen of the Ooni’s Palace. At least 35 people were confirmed dead in the stampede, which took place at the Islamic High School, Basorun, Ibadan.
The police have arrested the ex-wife of the monarch, along with seven others, for their alleged roles in the event. The case has been transferred to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department, Iyaganku, with a Deputy Commissioner of Police heading the investigation.
Expressing sympathy with the Oyo State Government and the families of the victims, the Palace also voiced solidarity with the ex-queen, acknowledging her past contributions to children’s welfare.
“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,” said Olafare.
The Palace pledged support for initiatives aimed at providing comfort and healing to the affected families. It also called for immediate measures to prevent such tragedies in the future by adhering strictly to safety standards and child welfare policies in educational settings.
“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.
Additionally, the Palace criticized certain bloggers for sensationalizing the tragedy, accusing them of neglecting journalistic ethics.
“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 statement noted.
It encouraged all stakeholders, including government officials, media, and citizens, to approach the matter with compassion and constructive dialogue.
“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,” it added.
