Ooni of Ife mourns Ibadan stampede victims, defends ex-wife, Queen Naomi

• The Islamic High School Basorun event, organized by Wings Foundation, resulted in 35 fatalities and multiple injuries, involving the ex-wife of the monarch, Naomi Silekunola.

• Oba Ogunwusi expressed his condolences to the affected families and the Oyo State Government in a statement by his spokesperson, Moses Olafare.

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has conveyed his profound condolences to the families of the children who sadly lost their lives in a stampede at a funfair in Ibadan.

The incident occurred at the Islamic High School, Basorun, during an event organized by the Wings Foundation, a charity established by the monarch’s former wife, Naomi Silekunola. The Oyo State Police have reported 35 fatalities along with numerous injuries resulting from this unfortunate event.

In a statement issued on Thursday by his spokesperson, Moses Olafare, Oba Ogunwusi expressed his heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved families and the Oyo State Government.

He also expressed his support for the detained former queen, highlighting her genuine concern for children and her commitment to organizing similar charitable events during her tenure as queen in Osun State.

The monarch expressed his commitment to initiatives designed to provide comfort and recovery for individuals affected by the tragedy.

Ooni of Ife’s statement concerning the stampede at Olori Naomi’s event.

“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 monarch expressed disapproval of what he termed the sensationalism surrounding the tragic event and urged for a period of solemn reflection and a shared sense of responsibility among all citizens.

“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.