The House of Oduduwa has extended its heartfelt condolences to the government of Oyo State, event organisers, and families of the victims affected by the tragic stampede that occurred at a children’s funfair in Ibadan. The unfortunate incident, which claimed the lives of several young attendees, has plunged the nation into mourning.
In an official statement signed by Otunba Moses Olafare, Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni's Palace, the House of Oduduwa expressed deep sympathy to the Oyo State Government, Agidigbo Radio (owned by Oriyomi Hamzat), and Women in Need of Guidance and Support (WINGS), an organisation led by Ms Naomi Silekunola Ogunseyi, a former queen at the Ooni’s Palace.
“The House of Oduduwa shares in the grief and pain that has engulfed the affected families. We pray that Olodumare grants them the fortitude to bear this trying time,” the statement read.
The Palace commended the swift response of Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, to the tragedy, describing his leadership as commendable in the face of adversity. The incident, the House of Oduduwa noted, underscores the urgent need for collaborative efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of children across Nigeria.
The statement emphasized the importance of adherence to safety standards and child welfare policies in future events, urging stakeholders to draw lessons from the tragedy. The Palace reiterated its commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at safeguarding children and ensuring such incidents do not recur.
Recalling Ms Naomi Silekunola Ogunseyi’s charitable initiatives during her tenure as queen, the House of Oduduwa highlighted her past efforts in organising events to support indigent children, particularly during festive seasons. It expressed hope that the organisers, despite the tragedy, would remain committed to similar laudable programmes in the future, with improved strategies and planning.
The Palace expressed dismay over the conduct of some bloggers and media practitioners who sensationalized the tragedy, accusing them of compounding the grief of affected families through the dissemination of unverified and distorted information. The House of Oduduwa urged the media to uphold journalistic integrity, exercise restraint, and demonstrate compassion in their reporting.
“This situation calls for solemn reflection and collective responsibility. We encourage media practitioners to prioritize truth and empathy, as their narratives significantly influence public perception and healing processes,” the statement added.
The House of Oduduwa called on government officials, media practitioners, and citizens to unite in compassion and constructive dialogue to honor the memories of the departed. The Palace urged Nigerians to use this moment as a catalyst for renewed commitment to protecting children and fostering a culture of care, respect, and accountability.
“May this sorrowful moment inspire us all to uphold the values of truth, empathy, and shared humanity,” the statement concluded.
The tragic event, initially designed to bring joy to children during the festive season, has become a somber reminder of the need for vigilance, preparedness, and a collective commitment to safety in all public gatherings.
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