Founder of the WINGS Foundation, Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, has extended support to families affected by the 2024 children’s funfair tragedy in Ibadan, Oyo State, marking one year since the incident.
On Tuesday, Silekunola, alongside members of her foundation—which focuses on the welfare of women and children—paid a condolence visit to the families who lost loved ones in the tragic event.
During the visit, she expressed sympathy with the bereaved families and presented donations in memory of the children who died. A video from the visit showed the prophetess explaining that the gesture was meant to comfort the families and honour the victims.
She noted that despite the unfortunate incident, she remains committed to what she described as her divine calling. According to her, this year’s children’s funfair was redesigned as a remembrance programme rather than a celebration.
Silekunola offered words of encouragement and prayers, expressing hope that the families would experience healing and renewed joy.
“I did not come to reopen wounds,” she said. “I pray that by this time next year, sadness will no longer define your lives, and joy will take its place.”
One of the parents who spoke during the visit said the families had accepted the situation, adding that they appreciated the show of concern and support.
The tragedy occurred in 2024 when a stampede at a children’s funfair in Ibadan led to the deaths of several children, while others were injured. The event was organised by Silekunola in collaboration with broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat, with the Principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, Abdullahi Fasasi, also linked to the case.
The Oyo State Government later filed criminal charges against the trio, who were remanded in December 2024 and granted bail in January 2025. The case was eventually dismissed in March 2025.
