The deaths of about 40 children in Ibadan on Wednesday from stampede at a christmas event for minor organised by Silekunola Ogunwusi, ex-wife of Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has drawn words from the monarch.
About 40 minors were stampeded to death in the crowd crush that happened at Islamic High School venue where children accompanied by their parents gathered to collect cash handouts and items for Christmas celebration.
The sad deaths resulted in the arrest of Silekunola and other promoters of the event, with some startling narratives on social media trailing the matter.
Oba Ogunwusia in a statement his spokesman, Moses Olafare released with which he sympathised with the Oyo State Government, and organisers of the children’s party over the loss of lives urged restraint from the media.
“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 sensationalise the tragic incident rather than uphold journalistic integrity.
“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 statement read in part.
