Naomi Silekunola, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, has been arrested alongside seven others in connection with a devastating stampede that occurred at a carnival in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The tragic incident claimed the lives of 35 children and left six others critically injured.
The stampede unfolded on Wednesday at the Islamic High School in the Bashorun area of Ibadan during a family-oriented event organized by Wings Foundation, a non-governmental organization supporting women and girls. The event, advertised to cater to 5,000 attendees, was promoted as “Children Funfair with Queen/Prophetess Naomi Silekunola O.”
In a statement issued on Thursday, Osifeso Adewale, the spokesperson for the Oyo State Police Command, confirmed the arrests and ongoing investigation. Among those arrested are Silekunola, 31, and Fasasi Abdulahi, 56, the principal of the school where the event took place.
Others apprehended include Genesis Christopher, 24; Tanimowo Moruf, 52; Anisolaja Olabode, 42; Idowu Ibrahim, 35; and Abiola Oluwatimilehin, 25.
“Following the tragic stampede at the Islamic High School, Basorun, Ibadan, on December 18, 2024, eight persons have been arrested for their roles in the incident,” Adewale stated. “These arrests include the main event sponsor, Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, and key organizers.”
He added that the case has been transferred to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Iyaganku, with the Deputy Commissioner of Police leading the probe.
The police also assured residents of increased patrols and a strong security presence in the area to prevent criminal elements from exploiting the situation.
The Oyo State Police Command extended its condolences to the families of the victims, emphasizing that justice would be pursued diligently.
