In the wake of the tragic stampede that occurred during a children's event in Ibadan on December 18, 2024, which resulted in the deaths of 35 children, Mrs. Funmilayo Ogunseyi, mother of Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi (the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife), has made an emotional appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for intervention regarding her daughter's current legal predicament.
Naomi Ogunwusi was arrested alongside several others in connection with the stampede that took place at the Islamic High School in Bashorun during a family funfair organized by her foundation, Wings Foundation. The event, which was intended to provide joy and entertainment for children, tragically turned into a scene of chaos as a large crowd gathered prematurely, leading to the deadly incident.
Mrs. Ogunseyi expressed her anguish in a heartfelt video that has circulated widely on social media. She pleaded for mercy and understanding from the President and other influential Nigerians, emphasizing that her daughter’s intentions were purely humanitarian. "My child only came to Ibadan to help the needy; this was not her first time," she stated tearfully. "She has dedicated her life to outreach programs across Nigeria."
The police have charged Naomi and two others with conspiracy and negligent acts causing harm, citing failures in providing adequate security and medical facilities at the event. However, Mrs. Ogunseyi insists that Naomi was not present at the venue when the stampede began and had been unwell prior to the incident.
"I sympathize with the families who lost their children; it was never our intention," she continued. "Please, don’t let Naomi be imprisoned—she is innocent." Mrs. Ogunseyi highlighted that crowds began gathering hours before the event's official start time of 10 a.m., with chaos erupting as early as 6:30 a.m., long before Naomi arrived.