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, following a stampede at a children’s carnival she organized. The tragic incident occurred on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at the Islamic High School in Bashorun, Ibadan, claiming the lives of 35 minors and leaving six others critically injured.
Police spokesperson Adewale Osifeso announced in a statement that eight individuals have been arrested in connection with the event. Among them are Silekunola, 31, and Fasasi Abdulahi, the 56-year-old principal of the school. Others include Genesis Christopher, Tanimowo Moruf, Anisolaja Olabode, Idowu Ibrahim, and Abiola Oluwatimilehin, aged between 25 and 52.
“The case has been transferred to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department, with the Deputy Commissioner of Police leading the inquiry,” Osifeso stated. He assured the public that justice would be served and noted that police patrols would be intensified in the area to maintain security and prevent unrest.
The stampede has drawn widespread attention, prompting an outpouring of condolences from public figures and officials. Governor Seyi Makinde expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, describing it as a “very sad day.”
The Oyo State Police Command has extended condolences to the bereaved families and urged residents to remain calm, while providing contact numbers for emergencies. An investigation is underway to determine the causes and accountability for the devastating incident.
