Ibadan Stampede: The Oyo State Government has filed an 18-count charge against the former queen of the Ooni of Ife, Naomi Silekunola; Ibadan radio station proprietor, Oriyomi Hamzat; and the Principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun, Abdulahi Fasasi.
The charges stem from the tragic December 18, 2024 funfair Ibadan Stampede that claimed the lives of 35 children in Ibadan.
The charge sheet, marked I/05C/2025 and filed at the Oyo State High Court on January 10, accuses the defendants of conspiracy to commit murder, manslaughter, criminal negligence, and related offenses, contrary to Sections 324, 308, and 344 of the Criminal Code, CAP 38, Vol II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
Allegations of Negligence
The state alleges that the defendants failed to provide adequate security, crowd control, and medical facilities during the funfair, leading to the fatal stampede. Among the Ibadan Stampede victims were children as young as 1.5 years old.
The prosecution specifically cited the deaths of 14 victims, including Musiliu Sofiat, 8; Lekan Salami, 7; Feyikemi Salam, 1.5; and Salaudeen Khalid, a minor, among others.
Legal Actions and Detention
The defendants, arrested on December 24, 2024, remain in custody as the state government pursues justice. Governor Seyi Makinde had pledged to ensure the culprits face the full weight of the law.
Fasasi faces additional charges for negligent acts causing harm and failure to provide essential safety measures at the event.
The trial is expected to shed more light on the tragic incident and the lapses that led to the loss of innocent lives.