…FG orders probe
…Ooni offers support for victims’ families, calls for improved safety measures
By Ismail Azeez, Osogbo
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, have extended their heartfelt condolences to the Oyo State Government and families of victims following the tragic stampede at the Ibadan Funfair, which left thirty-five dead and many others injured.
The President extended heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Oyo State, particularly to the grieving families who lost their children in the unfortunate event.
Tinubu has urgently directed the relevant authorities to investigate the circumstances of the tragedy thoroughly.
He stressed the need for transparency and accountability, particularly in determining whether negligence or deliberate actions contributed to the tragedy.
He also urged the Oyo State Government to take every necessary measure to prevent such a tragedy from reoccurring.
Furthermore, Tinubu called on event organisers to prioritise the safety of all attendees, especially children. He stressed the importance of integrating professional security, protocol, and logistics at events to ensure the utmost safety of all participants.
Also, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has extended his heartfelt sympathy to the Oyo State government, the organisers of the Ibadan Funfair, and the bereaved families of the young souls lost in the stampede incident.
Ooni through his Director of Media and Public Affairs, Otunba Moses Olafare, expressed deep sorrow and grief over the loss of life
According to the statement, “The House of Oduduwa extends its heartfelt sympathy to the government of Oyo state, the organisers; Agidigbo Radio owned by Oriyomi Hamzat, the Women in Need of Guidance and Support(WINGS) owned by a former queen at the Ooni’s Palace; Ms Naomi Silekunola Ogunseyi, the bereaved families of the young souls lost in the tragic incident in Ibadan yesterday.
“We share in the grief and pains that has engulfed the affected families. We pray that Olodumare grants them fortitude to bear this trying time.
“We also express our solidarity with the government of Oyo State as they navigate this difficult moment especially Mr Governor’s commendable responsiveness. This tragedy underscores the urgent need for collaborative efforts in ensuring the safety and well-being of our children across Nigeria.
“While at the Ile Oodua here as a queen, Miss Naomi Silekuola Ogunseyi demonstrated love and cares 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.
“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 dissemination of unverified and distorted information has only compounded the grief of the families and individuals directly affected. We urge all media practitioners to exercise restraint, compassion, and professionalism in reporting sensitive issues, as their narratives significantly influence public perception and healing processes.
“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.
“Rather than being discouraged by the sorrowful end of the event which was initially planned to show love for the children giving helping hands to their parents during this yuletide, miss Naomi Silekunola, Mr Oriyomi Hamzat and their co-organisers should remain committed to doing such laudable programmes for the children but with better plans and strategies of execution in the future. Lesson must be learnt.
“May this sorrowful moment inspire a renewed commitment to protecting our children, preserving our shared humanity, and upholding the values of truth and empathy.’’
Recall that the police in Oyo State have confirmed that 35 minors tragically lost their lives, while six others remain critically injured and are receiving various medical treatments.
The Oyo State police spokesperson, Adewale Osifeso, who confirmed the fatalities, also stated that eight suspects had been arrested in connection with the incident.
In a statement, Mr Osifeso explained that the investigation had been handed over to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Iyaganku, with the Deputy Commissioner of Police overseeing the inquiry.
“Residents in the area are urged not to panic, as there will be increased patrols and a visible police presence to deter criminals from exploiting the tragic situation,” he said.
He also expressed the command’s condolences to the families and loved ones affected by the incident and assured residents that justice would be pursued.
The Public Relations Officer for University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan, Funmilayo Adetuyibi, said that only five victims were brought to the hospital.
“The five victims brought in yesterday were dead on arrival, so no admissions were made as they were brought in deceased,” she said.
The Oyo State government had previously announced on Wednesday that the victims were taken to various hospitals across the state capital.