Opeyemi Olamilekan
IBADAN – Agidigbo FM owner Oriyomi was reportedly hospitalised after at least 35 children were killed in a stampede incident in Ibadan, Oyo State, South-West Nigeria, sources at the radio station said on Thursday.
Hamzat reportedly expressed shock after he witnessed the deaths of some of the children during a ill-fated festive party organised at the Islamic High School in Bashorun, Ibadan, and was hurriedly rushed to a nearby hospital for prompt medical attention.
The stampede occurred during a children’s Christmas party organised by one Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife.
Agidigbo 88.7 FM, owned by Oriyomi Hamzat, a popular broadcaster, had actively promoted the event in the days leading up to the disaster.
Police in the state said in a statement by spokesman SP Osifeso Adewale that 35 children had been confirmed dead so far with six others critically injured.
The police had also confirmed the arrest of Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, the estranged wife of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and seven others behind ill-fated event.
“He(Mr Hamzat) was truly at the event. But when the stampede started and children were collapsing, he could not withstand that ugly scene. So he also fell and he is currently at the hospital,” a source privy to the incident told investigative news outlet SaharaReporters.
Also, in a statement issued on Thursday by Ooni of Ife’s spokesman Moses Olafare, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi expressed sympathy with the Government of Oyo State and the families of children whose lives were lost in the tragedy.
The monarch also showed solidarity with the ex-queen, saying she genuinely cared for children and organised similar events in Osun State when she was queen.
Oba Ogunwusi also pledged to support all efforts to bring solace and healing to those affected by the deaths.
“We share in the grief and pains that have engulfed the affected families. We pray that Olodumare grants them the fortitude to bear this trying time.
“While at the Ile Oodua here as a queen, Miss Naomi Silekuola Ogunseyi demonstrated love and care 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.
“The House of Oduduwa pledges to support all efforts aimed at bringing solace and healing to those affected by this devastating loss. The House of Oduduwa calls for immediate actions to prevent such unfortunate incidents in the future, emphasizing the need for rigorous adherence to safety standards and child welfare policies in educational institutions,” the statement read.
The monarch also condemned what he called the sensationalisation of the tragic incident and called for solemn reflection and collective responsibility of all citizens.
“While the situation calls for solemn reflection and collective responsibility, we would want to express dismay at the unprofessional conduct of some bloggers who have chosen to sensationalize the tragic incident rather than uphold journalistic integrity.
“The House of Oduduwa encourages all stakeholders, from government officials to the media and citizens, to unite in compassion and constructive dialogue. Let us honour the memories of the departed by fostering a culture of care, respect, and accountability in our communities,” the statement added.
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