A Yoruba socio-cultural group, Kaaro Oojiire Omo Oodua Foundation (KOOOF), has demanded the unconditional release of Queen Naomi Silekunola, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, and two others detained following the tragic Ibadan stampede that claimed 35 children’s lives.
The tragedy unfolded on December 18, 2024, during a charity event in Ibadan, Oyo State. Parents reportedly threw their children over a fence in desperation to access food and other relief items, causing a fatal stampede. While the incident sparked national outrage, the detention of Queen Naomi, broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat, and Islamic High School Principal Fasasi Abdulahi has ignited fresh controversy.
KOOOF Condemns Injustice
KOOOF described the detention as “Èèwò” (an abomination) and accused the authorities of using the individuals as scapegoats. In a statement signed by the group’s chairman, Asiwaju Olu Mayungbe, KOOOF argued that the tragedy reflected deeper systemic issues.
“This detention is unjust and represents a blemish on the Yoruba race. It is a painful irony that desperate parents, whose actions directly caused the deaths, are walking free, while those who organized the relief program to help the vulnerable are incarcerated,” the statement read.
The group criticized what it called a “glaring double standard” in the handling of the case. “This sends a chilling message to humanitarians across the country: that their efforts to alleviate poverty and provide support to the needy could be met with persecution,” the statement continued.
A Call for Justice and Action
KOOOF outlined its demands in no uncertain terms, urging the Nigerian government to release the detained humanitarians immediately. The group also called for financial compensation for the victims’ families and emphasized addressing the root causes of poverty.
“We stand in solidarity with the humanitarians and the victims’ families. Together, we must create a society where compassion is not punished but celebrated,” the statement concluded.
A Spotlight on Poverty
The incident has thrown a harsh spotlight on the widespread poverty and desperation in Nigeria. Oyo State, like many other parts of the country, has been grappling with severe economic hardship, driving many families into extreme measures just to survive.
According to reports, the stampede occurred when parents rushed to secure relief items at the charity event, which was reportedly intended to support hundreds of impoverished families. Witness accounts suggest that the chaotic scramble was fueled by overcrowding and insufficient security measures.
A resident who witnessed the tragedy lamented the state of affairs. “This could have been avoided if people were not so hungry. It is heartbreaking that children paid the ultimate price,” he said.
A Controversial Detention
The detention of Queen Naomi and her co-organizers has sparked mixed reactions across the country. While some argue that holding the event organizers accountable is necessary, others believe their arrest is a misstep.
Queen Naomi, known for her humanitarian efforts, has garnered significant sympathy from the public. Many have described her weeks-long incarceration as unjust and a reflection of systemic flaws in Nigeria’s justice system.
Oriyomi Hamzat, a popular broadcaster, and Fasasi Abdulahi, the principal of the hosting school, have also been accused of negligence. However, critics say the arrests reflect a tendency to target visible figures instead of addressing systemic failures.
A legal expert, speaking under anonymity, questioned the fairness of the proceedings. “The law must be applied equitably. If negligence is being alleged, what about the parents whose actions directly led to the stampede?”
Public Reactions Grow
The Yoruba cultural sphere has erupted with anger over the case, with prominent voices joining KOOOF in demanding justice. Social media platforms are awash with hashtags such as #FreeQueenNaomi and #JusticeForHumanitarians, drawing national and international attention to the issue.
Renowned Yoruba historian, Professor Tunde Ajibola, described the incident as a reflection of deeper societal problems. “This tragedy underscores the devastating impact of poverty in our communities. But criminalizing those who tried to help is not the solution,” he said.
Government’s Role in the Crisis
The Nigerian government’s handling of the incident has faced intense criticism. Activists argue that the administration has failed to provide adequate social welfare programs to mitigate the effects of poverty, leaving private individuals and groups to fill the gap.
KOOOF’s statement also highlighted this concern, urging the government to prioritize poverty alleviation and improve the welfare of its citizens. “If the government had been proactive in addressing economic hardship, this tragedy would likely not have occurred,” it said.
