The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has pledged support to his ex-wife, Queen Naomi Silekunola, facing legal charges after a tragic stampede in Ibadan.
The monarch believes that God will ultimately clear her name and vindicate her.
No malicious intent, says Ooni
Oba Ogunwusi expressed his confidence that Silekunola had no ill intentions toward the children or other attendees at the event.
According to the Ooni, her sole purpose for organizing the funfair was to bring joy and happiness to underprivileged children, a cause she has always been passionate about.
The Ooni emphasized that Silekunola’s actions were motivated by kindness, not harm.
Tragic stampede leads to legal charges
The devastating stampede claimed the lives of 35 children, leading to significant legal consequences for Silekunola and others involved.
Alongside Silekunola, Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat, the owner of Agidigbo FM, and Abdulahi Fasasi, the principal of Islamic High School in Bashorun, Ibadan, are facing multiple charges, including conspiracy, causing death by negligence, endangering public safety, and failing to provide adequate security and medical facilities during the event.
Read Also: Ibadan Stampede: Court remands Ooni’s ex-queen, others
Ibadan Stampede: Court to rule Jan. 13 on bail applications for Ooni’s ex- wife,others
Court orders remand, bail denied
On December 24, 2024, an Ibadan Magistrate’s Court ordered the three defendants to be remanded in custody while investigations continued.
Subsequently, Justice K.B. Olawoyin of the State High Court in Ibadan refused to grant bail to the accused during a hearing. The judge adjourned the ruling on the bail applications until January 13, 2025.
Supporters call for Oba Ogunwusi’s intervention
Since the case began, Queen Naomi’s supporters have been urging Oba Ogunwusi to intervene and help secure her release.
Some have criticized the Ooni for not taking more action to prevent her imprisonment. Despite this, the monarch has explained that he cannot interfere with the legal process and that only the courts and divine intervention will determine her fate.
![Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, ex-wife of Ooni of Ife who was arrested and held responsible for the Ibadan Stampede. [Photo Credit: Google]](https://newdailyprime.news/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/OIP-52.jpeg)
Ooni’s response: prayers and support
In a recent interview, Oba Ogunwusi’s Chief Press Secretary, Otunba Moses Olafare, conveyed the monarch’s stance on the matter.
He made it clear that the royal family cannot interfere with the court process and will instead await the court’s decision.
Olafare also reiterated that Oba Ogunwusi and his palace are praying for Silekunola’s exoneration and believe in her good intentions.
Read Also: Ibadan stampede: Woli Agba prays for Naomi Silekunola
Legacy of charity: Silekunola’s commitment to children
Oba Ogunwusi took the opportunity to highlight Silekunola’s long history of charitable work, particularly for children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
He recalled how she had organized similar events during her time in the palace without any incidents.
The Ooni emphasized that no one who organizes such events has harmful intentions and reiterated his belief that the tragic stampede was an unfortunate accident.
Ooni defends Silekunola’s integrity
The Ooni continued to defend his ex-wife’s integrity, stating that she had always acted with good conscience.
He expressed his belief that she had no intention of causing harm to anyone at the event. The Ooni also shared his hopes that the court would ultimately rule in her favor, reflecting his faith in her character and good intentions.
Prayers for justice and vindication
Despite the legal challenges, Oba Ogunwusi’s message to Queen Naomi was one of support and prayer.
He wished her well and prayed that God would grant her justice and eventual exoneration. The Ooni’s belief in her integrity and his trust in the judicial system stand as a testament to his unwavering support for his former wife during this difficult time.
Looking ahead: A wait for the court’s ruling
As the case moves forward, many are awaiting the court’s final decision, hoping for justice and closure.
The Ooni of Ife’s continued support for his ex-wife highlights his belief in her character and the good intentions behind her charitable efforts.
With the case adjourned until January 13, 2025, all eyes remain on the court, as supporters and the royal family alike pray for a favorable resolution.
Read Also: Ibadan Stampede: Actress Opeyemi Aiyeola cancels charity
