The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has expressed sympathy to the families of children who died at a funfair in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Wednesday.
PUNCH Online reports that the Oyo State Police Command has confirmed at least 35 persons dead in a stampede that occurred at the Islamic High School, Basorun, Ibadan, venue of the family event organised by Wings Foundation owned by a former Queen, Naomi Silekunola.
In a statement on Thursday, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Adewale Osifeso, said the ex-queen and seven others had been arrested for their various involvements in the funfair.
However, in a statement issued on Thursday, the monarch’s spokesman, Moses Olafare, said Oba Ogunwusi expressed sympathy with the Government of Oyo State and the families of children whose lives were lost in the tragedy.
The monarch also showed solidarity with the ex-queen, saying she genuinely cared for children and organised similar events in Osun State when she was queen.
Ogunwusi also pledged to support all efforts to bring solace and healing to those affected by the deaths.
“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,” the statement read.
The monarch also condemned what he called the sensationalisation of the tragic incident and called for solemn reflection and collective responsibility of 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.
