The Oyo State Government has filed an 18-count charge, including manslaughter, against Naomi Silekunola, former wife of the Ooni of Ife; Oriyomi Hamzat, CEO of Agidigbo FM; and Fasasi Abdullahi, Principal of Islamic High School.
The charges stem from a tragic stampede at a Christmas Funfair in Ibadan that resulted in the deaths of 35 children.
NBA CONDOLES THE FAMILIES OF STAMPEDE VICTIMS AND CALL FOR CAUTION
Oyo: Court Proceedings
The charges were filed at the Oyo State High Court following an investigation into the incident. On January 7, the defendants’ legal team presented a bail application, citing their cooperation with the investigation and their lack of flight risk.
The defence also questioned the legality of the defendants’ detention, arguing that the “holding charge” under which they were remanded was not recognized by the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA).
Prosecution’s Stand
Abiodun Aikomo, the Oyo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, opposed the bail applications, stating that the accused had not provided sufficient grounds for their release. He argued that the gravity of the charges and the need for justice for the victims necessitated their continued detention.
“The claims of persecution by the defendants are baseless,” Aikomo stated, emphasizing the importance of justice for the families of the 35 victims.
Stampede: Court Denies Bail for Ooni’s Ex-Wife, Islamic School Principal
Oyo: Judge’s Decision
Justice K.B. Olawoyin, presiding over the case, reserved his ruling on the bail applications until Monday, January 13, 2025.
The Defendants
- Naomi Silekunola: Former wife of the Ooni of Ife.
- Oriyomi Hamzat: CEO of Agidigbo FM.
- Fasasi Abdullahi: Principal of Islamic High School.
The case has sparked widespread public attention, with calls for accountability and justice for the victims of the tragic stampede.