Ibadan Stampede: Oriyomi Hamzat, owner of Ibadan-based Agidigbo FM, alongside his co-accused, Ooni of Ife’s ex-queen Naomi Silekunola and Islamic High School Principal Abdulahi Fasasi, has been released from Agodi Correctional Centre, Ibadan, Oyo State.
The trio, accused of criminal negligence in the tragic December 2024 stampede that claimed the lives of 35 children, was granted bail by Justice K.B. Olawoyin on Monday. The bail was set at ₦10 million each, with two sureties in like amounts.
Hamzat, overwhelmed with emotion upon his release on Tuesday, was welcomed by a large crowd at his broadcasting station.
Ibadan Stampede: Addressing them tearfully, he said: “Oriyomi is back. At this time, I am in a moment of silence. Thank you very much.”
Background:
The tragic Ibadan Stampede incident occurred during a funfair held at Islamic High School in Ibadan, where inadequate security, crowd control, and medical facilities allegedly led to a stampede.
Following the incident, the Oyo State Government filed an 18-count criminal charge against Hamzat, Silekunola, and Fasasi, including conspiracy to commit murder, manslaughter, and criminal negligence.
The prosecution cited negligence under Section 517 of the Criminal Code, CAP 38, Vol II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000. The charge sheet detailed their failure to provide necessary measures, resulting in the deaths of Musiliu Sofiat, aged 8, and 34 other children.
Public Reaction:
The release of the accused has sparked diverse opinions, with many closely following developments in the case. The tragic loss of young lives continues to evoke sorrow and calls for accountability in ensuring safer public events.