By Correspondent in Ibadan.
In a devastating turn of events, Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, a former queen of the Ooni of Ife, has been detained alongside six others, following a tragic stampede that claimed the lives of 35 children at a funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The ill-fated event, held on Wednesday at the Islamic High School in Basorun, Ibadan,was organized by Women in Need of Guidance and Support, a non-governmental organization founded by Silekunola.
Our correspondent gathered that despite preparations for 5,000 children, the venue was overwhelmed by over 7,500 attendees, leading to chaos and a deadly crush as participants struggled to enter.
The Oyo State Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation, transferring the case to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department.
Police Public Relations Officer Adewale Osifeso confirmed the arrest of Silekunola, 31, and six others, including the school principal, Fasasi Abdulahi, 56.
“The tragic incident led to the loss of 35 minors, with six others in critical condition,” Osifeso said, adding that justice would be pursued vigorously.
The Reporters noted that the aftermath of the tragedy has been marked by grief and anger.
Distraught parents have been retrieving the bodies of their children from hospitals, including Patnas Hospital, Basorun; Western Hospital, Basorun; and University College Hospital.
The Oyo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, confirmed that parents had been granted custody of the victims’ remains, stating.
“Many demanded the release of their children’s bodies, and we have complied,”the commissioner said.
Feelers from Ibadan indicates that police presence has been heightened in the area to prevent unrest, with authorities urging residents to remain calm.
“High-level patrols and visible police presence will continue to ensure security and peace,” Osifeso reassured.
President Bola Tinubu and other notable figures, including the Ooni of Ife, have expressed their condolences to the grieving families.
The President has ordered a comprehensive probe into the tragedy, promising swift action to prevent future occurrences.
As the investigation unfolds, the public is watching closely, demanding accountability for a tragedy that many believe could have been avoided.
Edited by Dada Ahmed
