Oyo State Police arrested Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, estranged wife of the Ooni of Ife, and seven others following a deadly stampede at a children’s Christmas party in Ibadan. The tragedy claimed 35 children’s lives, leaving six injured. Investigations are underway, with justice promised for affected families.
The Oyo State Police Command has detained Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, the estranged wife of the Ooni of Ife, along with seven others, in connection with a tragic stampede during a children’s Christmas party in Ibadan. The incident, which occurred at Islamic High School in Bashorun, left 35 children dead and six critically injured.
In a statement by police spokesperson SP Osifeso Adewale, authorities confirmed the arrests and ongoing investigations into the heartbreaking event. Those in custody include the event organizer and other individuals allegedly connected to the stampede.
The festive gathering, organized by WINGS Foundation, a group led by Prophetess Naomi, turned deadly when chaos erupted. Agidigbo FM, which was initially linked to the event, has publicly denied being involved, clarifying that they neither sponsored nor organized the party.
Eyewitness accounts describe the stampede as a scene of confusion, with children crushed in the frantic rush. Survivors are receiving medical attention, and the police have assured residents that patrols will be intensified to maintain order in the area.
The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, with homicide detectives leading the inquiry. The police expressed condolences to affected families and pledged that all responsible parties would face justice.
