Nollywood star Femi Branch has weighed in on the tragic stampede in Ibadan, Oyo State, which claimed the lives of over 35 people, mostly children. The incident occurred at a funfair organized by Prophetess Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, at Islamic High School, Bashorun.
Originally planned for 5,000 attendees, the event spiraled out of control as news of free entry, gifts, and scholarships drew an overwhelming crowd. By the eve of the event, hundreds camped outside the venue, with desperate parents reportedly throwing their children over the fence in an attempt to secure entry.
The chaos led to the arrest and arraignment of Prophetess Naomi, journalist Oriyomi Hamzat, and the school’s principal, Fasasi Abdullahi. However, Femi Branch argues that the real offenders are the parents who endangered their children by smuggling them into the event.
In a social media post, Branch defended the organizers, stating, “This is not about being insensitive to the loss of lives; it is about holding the right people accountable. Why are the parents who threw their children over the fence not being held responsible? The organizers intended good and should not be blamed for this tragedy.”
He further called for the release of those in custody, asserting that they should not be punished for trying to help the community. The actor urged authorities to redirect their focus toward prosecuting negligent parents and ensuring justice is appropriately served.
The tragedy has sparked widespread debate about crowd control and the responsibilities of both event organizers and attendees.
