Police authorities in Oyo State have confirmed the arrest of eight individuals, including Naomi Silekunola, former wife of the Ooni of Ife, following a deadly stampede at a children’s Christmas event that claimed 35 young lives in Ibadan.
Oyo State Police Command spokesperson Adewale Osifeso said the tragedy occurred during a fun fair organized by WINGS Foundation at Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, on Wednesday. Six other people sustained critical injuries in the incident.
“Eight persons have since been arrested for their various involvements,” Osifeso stated.
Those detained include Silekunola, 31, school principal Fasasi Abdulahi, 56, and other individuals: Genesis Christopher, 24, Tanimowo Moruf, 52, Anisolaja Olabode, 42, Idowu Ibrahim, 35, and Abiola Oluwatimilehin, 25.
The Explainer learned the case has been transferred to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department in Iyaganku, with investigations led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police.
Eyewitness accounts revealed that the venue was overwhelmed when attendance surged to approximately 7,500 children, far exceeding the expected 5,000 participants.
The event, advertised as “Children’s Fun Fair 2024,” promised free entertainment, prizes, and scholarships for children aged 0-13.
UCH Ibadan spokesperson Funmi Adetuyibi confirmed that five children were pronounced dead upon arrival at their facility.
Additional victims were taken to Patnas Hospital, Western Hospital, and Ring Road State Hospital.
Agidigbo FM, which partnered in promoting the event, distanced itself from the organization. Director of Programmes Olayinka Abdulwahab said, “Agidigbo FM is not the event organiser but one of the media outfits used to promote it.”
The Palace of the Ooni of Ife, through spokesman Moses Olafare, expressed condolences to affected families while acknowledging Silekunola’s “genuine care for children.” The palace called for stricter safety measures at future events.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde responded to the tragedy by deploying security agents and medical personnel to the scene.
“Anyone directly or remotely involved in this disaster will be held accountable,” Makinde stated on social media platform X.
The governor also confirmed that the event has been stopped and attendees evacuated from the venue while investigations continue.
