The House of Oduduwa has extended heartfelt sympathy to the government of Oyo State, the organisers; Agidigbo Radio owned by Oriyomi Hamzat and the Women in Need of Guidance and Support (WINGS) owned by a former queen at the Ooni’s Palace; Ms Naomi Silekunola Ogunseyi, as well as the bereaved families of children who lost their lives in a Yuletide fanfare carnival in Ibadan yesterday.
Recall that the tragedy occurred at the Islamic High School in Bashorun area of the city where over 30 children reportedly died.
The number of children who turned out for the event exceeded the 5,000 that were meant to participate in it, which led to a struggle for entry through the school gate.
A statement on Thursday by Otunba Moses Olafare, the Director, Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace said: “We share in the grief and pains that have engulfed the affected families. We pray that Olodumare grants them the fortitude to bear this trying time.”
The statement read further: “We also express our solidarity with the government of Oyo State as they navigate this difficult moment, especially Mr Governor’s commendable responsiveness. This tragedy underscores the urgent need for collaborative efforts in ensuring the safety and well-being of our children across Nigeria.
“While at the Ile Oodua here as a queen, Miss Naomi Silekuola Ogunseyi demonstrated love and cares to the children of Ile-Ife through similar events which she executed passionately to give succour to children of indigent parents every December periods like this.
“The House of Oduduwa pledges to support all efforts aimed at bringing solace and healing to those affected by this devastating loss.
The House of Oduduwa, however, called for immediate actions to prevent such unfortunate incidents in the future.
It also stressed the need for rigorous adherence to safety standards and child welfare policies in educational institutions.
“While the situation calls for solemn reflection and collective responsibility, we would want to express dismay at the unprofessional conduct of some bloggers who have chosen to sensationalize the tragic incident rather than uphold journalistic integrity,” Olafare said.
He added: “The dissemination of unverified and distorted information has only compounded the grief of the families and individuals directly affected. We urge all media practitioners to exercise restraint, compassion, and professionalism in reporting sensitive issues, as their narratives significantly influence public perception and healing processes.
The House of Oduduwa also encouraged all stakeholders, from government officials to the media and citizens, to unite in compassion and constructive dialogue.
“Let us honour the memories of the departed by fostering a culture of care, respect, and accountability in our communities.
“Rather than being discouraged by the sorrowful end of the event which was initially planned to show love for the children giving helping hands to their parents during this yuletide, miss Naomi Silekunola, Mr Oriyomi Hamzat and their co-organisers should remain committed to doing such laudable programmes for the children but with better plans and strategies of execution in the future. Lesson must be learnt.
“May this sorrowful moment inspire a renewed commitment to protecting our children, preserving our shared humanity and upholding the values of truth and empathy,” the statement said.
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