A Chief Magistrate’s Court in Iyaganku, Ibadan, has issued a remand order for Naomi Silekunola, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, Oriyomi Hamzat, CEO of Agidigbo FM, and Abdullahi Fasasi, the Principal of Islamic High School, in connection with the deadly stampede that occurred during a Christmas event at the school.
The tragic incident, which took place last week at the Bashorun campus of Islamic High School, resulted in the deaths of 35 children and left six others injured.
The court, led by Chief Magistrate Olabisi Ogunkanmi, saw heightened security as the accused were brought into the courtroom on Tuesday, December 24th, 2024. The remand order follows their arraignment on four counts of criminal negligence, with charges referencing Section 324 of the Criminal Code, Cap. 38, Vol. II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
The prosecution contends that Silekunola, Hamzat, and Fasasi played pivotal roles in the series of events that led to the catastrophic stampede during what was meant to be a festive occasion.
Details of the charges suggest mismanagement and insufficient safety measures contributed to the tragedy, though specifics about the individual roles are still under investigation.
As the suspects were escorted under tight security, the case drew significant public attention. The court has instructed that the defendants remain in custody at Agodi Correctional Centre pending further legal proceedings and an official review of the case by the Oyo State Director of Public Prosecutions.
This tragic event has cast a shadow over the festive period in Ibadan, with many questioning the safety protocols in place at public events. The investigation continues as the community grapples with the devastating loss of young lives.
