Naomi Silekunola, former queen of Ooni of Ife, expresses grief despite the Oyo State Government dropping murder charges related to the Ibadan stampede that killed 35 children. While relieved by the legal outcome, she continues to mourn the loss and offers condolences to the bereaved families.
Naomi Silekunola, the former queen of Ooni of Ife, has shared her emotional response after the Oyo State Government dropped murder charges against her and two others in connection with the Ibadan stampede that resulted in 35 children’s deaths. The incident, which occurred at a funfair in December 2024, left lasting trauma for all involved.
The charges, which included murder, were filed in late 2024, leading to Silekunola, broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat, and school principal Abdullahi Fasasi spending weeks in detention over the Christmas and New Year holidays. However, in March 2025, Oyo State’s Attorney General moved to withdraw the charges, and the court dismissed the case.
Silekunola, who had remained silent due to a court order, took to Instagram to express both relief and continued grief over the tragic event. In her post, she extended her deepest sympathies to the grieving families, praying for God’s comfort for those who lost their children. She emphasized her commitment to children’s well-being and expressed her sorrow for the loss.
While she was relieved by the legal resolution, Silekunola stressed that the emotional pain of the tragedy lingers. She thanked her supporters, family, and religious leaders for their love and prayers during this difficult time.
