Group Calls for the Release of Queen Naomi Following Ibadan Stampede

A Yoruba socio-cultural group, Omo Oodua Yoruba Community, has called on Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and the State Police Command to release Princess Naomi Silekunola, the former Queen of the Ooni of Ife, and others detained in connection with the Ibadan stampede that tragically claimed 35 lives, mostly children.

The group, led by Dr. Garzali Adesokan Saura and Hon. Abdulazees Oyeniyi Salaudeen, expressed their condolences to the families of the victims and condemned the incident. They also appealed to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, to mediate in the matter, emphasizing unity and compassion within the Yoruba community.

The tragic event, which occurred days before Christmas in Ibadan, involved a crowd of around 10,000 people attending a funfair where cash gifts of ₦5,000 were to be distributed. In the chaos, 35 people, mostly schoolchildren, were trampled to death. The group urged swift resolution and support for the affected families while emphasizing the importance of preventing future occurrences.