Mrs. Funmilayo Ogunseyi, mother of Naomi Silekunola, the former queen of the Ooni of Ife, shared her heartbreak over her daughter’s arrest following the tragic stampede in Ibadan that claimed 35 children’s lives. In an emotional interview, she discussed the detention, the incident, and the legal steps now underway.
Ogunseyi revealed that the police had not given clear information on Naomi’s release. “The case is no longer with the police. It’s now in court,” she said. Naomi was taken to a custodial facility in Agodi, Ibadan, after appearing before a magistrate on December 24, 2024. The case has been adjourned until January 13, 2025.
Ogunseyi clarified that Naomi organized the funfair through her foundation, which supports women and the less privileged. Naomi had organized similar events in other cities, but this year’s funfair in Ibadan, despite careful planning, led to tragedy. The venue, the Islamic High School in Basorun, was overcrowded after advice to move there, leading to the stampede and children being thrown over the fence.
After the incident, Naomi went to the police to report it. She was interrogated and later detained. Ogunseyi recalled hearing about the overcrowding and deaths early in the morning. She stressed that Naomi never intended for this to happen and was devastated by the loss of life.
Ogunseyi pleaded for forgiveness from the grieving parents and asked Governor Seyi Makinde to intervene. She expressed confidence in their lawyer’s ability to secure Naomi’s release, though her heart remains heavy over the tragedy. “We never wanted anyone to be hurt,” Ogunseyi said, emphasizing that the event was meant to help, not harm.
Regarding the Ooni’s involvement, Ogunseyi called it a family matter but hoped the Ooni was working behind the scenes to resolve the situation. During her last visit, she found Naomi deeply distressed, not eating, and heartbroken over the deaths. Naomi’s love for children, evident in her foundation’s work, made this even harder for her.
Despite the tragedy, Ogunseyi urged Nigerians to continue supporting the less privileged. She appealed for understanding, stating that Naomi’s mission has always been to help others, not to cause harm. The incident, while devastating, will not stop the family’s charitable efforts.