The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye 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.
In 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.
