The Palace of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enita Ogunwusi has extended his heartfelt sympathies to the government of Oyo State, the organisers and families of the children that lost their lives in the stampede that greeted Wednesday’s children’s funfair at Islamic High School, Bashorun in Ibadan, Oyo State capital.
Oba Ogunwusi said he shared in the grief and pains that has engulfed the affected families, praying “that Olodumare grants them fortitude to bear this trying time.”
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This was conveyed via a statement on Thursday by the Director, Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, where the revered monarch also expressed sympathies Agidigbo FM 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 as well as the bereaved families.
“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,” the statement said.
The Palace also expressed solidarity as the Oyo State Government navigates this difficult moment, commending Governor Seyi Makinde for his responsiveness during the disaster.
“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,” Olafare said.
The statement also pledged the support of the palace towards all efforts aimed at bringing solace and healing to those affected by this devastating loss.
The Ooni’s Palace further called 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.
It however frowned at what was described as the unprofessional conduct of some bloggers who were accused of sensationalising the tragic incident rather than uphold journalistic integrity.
“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 sensationalise 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 palace said.
The Ooni 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.”
For the organisers, Oba Ogunwusi said, “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,” the statement added.