The Oyo State Police Command arrested Naomi Silekunola, the ex-queen of the Ooni of Ife; Fasasi Abdulahi, the principal of Islamic High School, Ibadan; and six others in connection with the death of some children during a stampede at a funfair in Ibadan, the state capital, on Wednesday.
The ex-queen Naomi Silekunola was named as the main sponsor of the event.
The number of children who died has risen to 35, while six others are critically injured.
The event, which was held at the Islamic High School, Basorun, Ibadan, Oyo state, was made available to 5,000 children, but the number that turned up was reportedly over 7,500, according to investigations.
The Oyo state governor, Seyi Makinde, confirmed that the organisers are in custody as investigations continue to determine the cause of the stampede.
He made this known in a statement he shared on his official X handle on Wednesday.
Makinde said measures have been taken to prevent further death while sympathising with the victims and their families.
The governor wrote, “Earlier today, an incident occurred in Islamic High School Basorun, the venue of an event organised for families. Sadly, a stampede at the venue has led to multiple losses of lives and injuries.
“This is a very sad day for us here in Oyo State. We sympathise with the parents whose joy has suddenly been turned to mourning due to these deaths.
“We have taken steps to ensure no further deaths are recorded at this venue by deploying security agents to restore order at the venue. We also deployed medical personnel and ambulances to the venue. The event has been stopped, and attendees have been escorted out of the venue. We are taking all realistic measures to ensure that the venue is secured.
“While investigations are ongoing, the primary organisers of the event that led to this stampede have been taken into custody.”
He also assured the public that those responsible would face appropriate consequences.
“I want to reassure our people that anyone directly or remotely involved in this disaster will be held accountable. Please remain calm as the security agencies investigate this unfortunate incident.
“Our hearts remain with the families and loved ones impacted by this tragedy. May the souls of the departed rest in peace. Amen,” he added.
