Ibadan stampede: Ooni’s ex-queen arrested, death toll now 35

The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of Naomi Silekunola, the estranged wife of the Ooni of Ile-Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, following a tragic stampede at a children’s carnival she organised.

The incident occurred on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at the Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan.

In a statement, police spokesperson in the state, Adewale Osifeso, said,  “Eight persons have since been arrested for their various involvements in the event.

“Among those detained are Silekunola, aged 31, and Fasasi Abdulahi, the 56-year-old principal of the school.”

“The other individuals arrested include Genesis Christopher, Tanimowo Moruf, Anisolaja Olabode, Idowu Ibrahim, and Abiola Oluwatimilehin, with ages ranging from 25 to 52 years.”

According to the statement, the stampede resulted in the tragic loss of “35 minors, with six additional children in critical condition and receiving various medical interventions.

Meanwhile, the state police command has taken significant steps in the investigation, transferring the case to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department, where the Deputy Commissioner of Police is leading the inquiry.

Osifeso assured the public, stating, “Justice will be served accordingly.” So far, 35 minors have been documented dead while six others are critically injured.”

The police command has transferred the case to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department, where a Deputy Commissioner of Police is leading the inquiry.

Osifeso said the police have increased their presence in the area to maintain peace and security, while residents have been advised not to panic, as police patrols will be heightened to prevent any potential unrest.