The Palace of Oni of Ife has pledged to support the families of the victims of Ibadan Christmas party stampede.
News Rider reports that at least 35 children died on Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at a Christmas party in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
The incident occured following a stampede at Islamic High School, Orita Bashorun, Ibadan, when the children rushed to collect their gifts.
Aside the casualties, about six injured persons are receiving medical attention.
The event was organised by Wings Foundation in partnership with Agidigbo FM.
In a statement by the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Moses Olafare, he extended his heartfelt sympathy to the victims' families, government of Oyo State and the bereaved.
He said: "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, Naomi Silekunola Ogunseyi; the bereaved families of the young souls lost in the tragic incident in Ibadan. 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, 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."
He requested for immediate actions to prevent such unfortunate incidents in the future, emphasising 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," he added.
Olafare encouraged 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," he said.
Already, the Police have arrested former wife of wife of Ooni of Ife, Naomi Silekunola, Principal of Islamic High School, Ibadan, and others shortly after the incident.
The principal, who was invited for questioning, was detained by the police at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) at Iyaganku area.
Police Public Relation Officer in Oyo State Command, Adewale Osifeso confirmed that the death of 35 children during the stampede.
The statement reads: "Following the tragic stampede on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at the Islamic High School, Basorun, Ibadan, the Oyo State Police Command has arrested eight individuals for their roles in the incident.
"The case has since been transferred to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department, Iyaganku with the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge leading the investigations.
"Finally, the Oyo State Police Command sympathizes with all the families and loved ones affected by the tragedy and assures the good people of the State that Justice will be served accordingly."
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