The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has criticized the detention and remand of philanthropist and former Ooni of Ife’s queen, Naomi Silekunola, following the tragic stampede at a funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State, that claimed the lives of 35 children last week.
In a statement issued by Abdul-Yekinn Odunayo, Clerk of the NANS Senate, the student body expressed disapproval of Silekunola’s arraignment at the Iyaganku Magistrate Court, describing it as unwarranted and counterproductive.
While acknowledging the tragedy, NANS argued that Silekunola, known for her philanthropic efforts spanning over a decade, should not be penalized for an incident rooted in the broader issue of poverty and hunger in the country.
Odunayo noted that the economic challenges in Nigeria, exacerbated by widespread hunger, were the underlying causes of the stampede. He urged the government to take responsibility for addressing these systemic issues rather than scapegoating the former queen for her charitable activities.
“Rather than holding Naomi and others solely responsible for the unfortunate deaths of children in Ibadan, the government should realize that hunger is real in the country. The government is vicariously liable as it has failed to revamp the economy and address poverty,” the statement read.
He also referenced similar incidents in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Anambra State, questioning why organizers of events in those locations had not faced similar legal action.
NANS demanded the immediate release of Silekunola and the other detainees, warning that their continued incarceration could deter others from engaging in philanthropic efforts.
“The step taken by the Oyo State government is a volte-face and a subterfuge for its failure to address the poverty and hunger pummeling Nigerians,” NANS stated.
The association called on the federal government to prioritize solutions to Nigeria’s economic challenges, emphasizing that tackling poverty and hunger would prevent future tragedies.