The ex-wife of the Ooni of Ile-Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Naomi Silekunola, has been arrested by the Oyo State Police Command following the tragic stampede at a children’s carnival she organised.

The incident occurred on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at the Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan.

In a statement on Thursday, the state police spokesperson, Adewale Osifeso, said Naomi was arrested alongside seven event organisers.

According to Osifeso, the stampede resulted in the tragic loss of 35 minors, with six children in critical condition and receiving various medical interventions.

The statement read, “Eight persons have since been arrested for their various involvements in the event.

“Among those detained are Silekunola, aged 31, and Fasasi Abdulahi, the 56-year-old principal of the school.”

“The other individuals arrested include Genesis Christopher, Tanimowo Moruf, Anisolaja Olabode, Idowu Ibrahim, and Abiola Oluwatimilehin, with ages ranging from 25 to 52 years. So far, 35 minors have been documented dead while 6 others are critically injured.”

Osifeso also stated that the command had taken significant steps in the investigation, transferring the case to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department, where the Deputy Commissioner of Police will lead the inquiry, and justice will be served accordingly.

He said police have increased their presence in the area to maintain peace and security, adding that residents have been advised not to panic, as police patrols will be heightened to prevent any potential unrest.

The statement emphasised.“Residents around the axis are advised not to panic as they would witness high level patrols and visible Police presence.

“The Oyo Police Command then expressed its condolences to the families affected by this tragedy, stating, “The Oyo State Police Command sympathises with all the families and loved ones affected by the tragedy.”

The command also provided emergency contact numbers, including a toll-free line at 615 and control room numbers: 08081768614, 09054133071, and 09061299291.