Yoruba elders condemn the detention of ex-Queen Naomi Silekunola and others over the Ibadan stampede, calling it unjust and a blemish on Yoruba heritage.
The Yoruba elders under the Kaaro Oojiire Omo Oodua Foundation (KOOOF) have decried the detention of former Queen Naomi Silekunola, calling it an abomination and a blemish on the Yoruba heritage. In a statement released on Monday, the group described the incident as unjust and urged the government to immediately release her and other detainees, including broadcaster Hamzat Oriyomi and Principal Abdullahi Fasasi.
The Incident and Allegations
Queen Naomi, formerly married to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, was detained following the tragic stampede in Ibadan, which claimed the lives of 35 minors during a chaotic funfair. The detention, according to KOOOF, raises questions about the integrity of the justice system and has sparked outrage among the Yoruba community.
Asiwaju Olu Mayungbe, Chairman of KOOOF, criticized the situation, stating:
“It has been nearly a month since Queen Naomi has been unjustly incarcerated. This is not just a personal tragedy but a stain on the Yoruba race. While humanitarian efforts are criminalized, those directly responsible for the tragedy remain free.”
A Call for Justice
Mayungbe emphasized the irony of the situation, pointing out that parents who pushed their children over fences, leading to the fatal stampede, have not been held accountable. Meanwhile, those who stepped in to help have been unjustly detained.
The group lamented the disregard for human rights and the rule of law, stating that such actions discourage humanitarian efforts and send a dangerous message to those seeking to help the vulnerable.
Demands from the Yoruba Elders
The KOOOF elders have demanded the following from the government:
- Immediate release of Queen Naomi, Hamzat Oriyomi, and Principal Abdullahi Fasasi.
- Provision of compensation and support for the affected families.
- Urgent measures to address the root causes of poverty and economic hardship in the region.
Conclusion
The detention of Queen Naomi and other humanitarians following the Ibadan tragedy highlights deeper societal issues, including systemic injustice and economic disparity. Yoruba elders are calling for swift action to rectify the injustice and uphold the values of fairness and equity in the justice system.
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