Police Arrest Ooni’s ex-wife Over Ibadan Stampede As Death Toll Hits 35
The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of Naomi Silekunola, the former wife of the Ooni of Ile-Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi.
This is following a tragic stampede at a children’s carnival she organized that occurred on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at the Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, and resulted in the death of many minors, with others critically injured.
In a statement on Thursday, Osifeso Adewale, Oyo police spokesperson, said 35 children have died while 6 others sustained various degrees of injuries as a result of the incident.
According to him, “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.”
The stampede has sparked an investigation, which has been transferred to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department.
The Deputy Commissioner of Police is leading the inquiry.
Osifeso assured the public that “justice will be served accordingly” and emphasized that police patrols would be heightened in the area to maintain security and prevent unrest.
The Oyo Police Command expressed condolences to the families affected by the tragedy and encouraged residents to stay calm, offering contact numbers for emergencies.
