The recent funfair organized by Queen Naomi Silekunola, the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, intended to bring joy to the children, has been marred by a tragic incident. On December 18, 2024, the event, which was expected to cater to around 5,000 attendees, saw an overwhelming turnout of 7,500. This led to a tragic stampede that resulted in the loss of over 30 children’s lives, leaving the community in shock and mourning.
The funfair, which was meant to be a festive occasion, aimed to provide entertainment and gifts for children. However, due to the unanticipated large crowd, the event became chaotic, making it difficult to manage the crowd, particularly when food and other resources became scarce.
Queen Naomi had previously shared details of the event on social media, highlighting the offerings, but the unforeseen overcrowding caused an unfortunate disaster. The incident has sparked widespread grief and concern, with many expressing their sorrow and sympathy for the families affected by the tragedy.
See photo of the poster
The heartbreaking news regarding the loss of so many young lives during the stampede has elicited a wide range of reactions from Nigerians on social media. While some individuals expressed their condolences to the former queen, others directed their criticism towards the current government and the prevailing issues of hunger in the nation.
Reacting to the post….
@tt_talks: “Waoh, good deeds turn bad. May God comfort the families in Jesus Name.”
@Prettyjumie: “Very sad…… May God console all the affected families.” melodyliquourpalace: “May the lord console the affected family….😢.” Withgodallthingarepossible: “Really sad may almighty no let our good deed turn to regret 😢.”
@Mz.bimz: “Haa God!! This is so sad. She meant well for the children oo.”
@Olajumoke_adenuga: “She should be held accountable.. cos how do expect 5,000 people without crowd control.. no 1st aid or ambulances.. no provision at all aside the money they invested in camera crew to show them giving mercies food.”
@ashakeade28: “This is very sad.”
@omonosaze_: “So so sad 😢 The management would have gotten a security team to control the crowd cos as far as hunger is concerned, not the number budgeted for will only show up. It is well.”