An High Court sitting in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria has adjourned the trial of broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat, former wife of the Ooni of Ife, Olori Naomi Silekunola, and the Principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun, Abdulahi Fasasi, to March 10, 2025.
The trio is facing charges related to the tragic Ibadan Children’s Funfair stampede, which resulted in the deaths of 35 minors. The event, scheduled to take place at Islamic High School, Bashorun, was abruptly canceled, leading to chaos that claimed several young lives.
The Oyo State Government had initially filed charges against them in a Magistrate Court but later moved the case to the High Court, arguing that a holding charge is not legally recognized. The state subsequently filed an 18-count charge against the defendants on January 10, 2025, including conspiracy to commit a felony, manslaughter, and criminal negligence.
During Tuesday’s court session, the proceedings were stalled due to the defendants not yet being served with their complaints. Additionally, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, stated that the arraignment could not proceed as the defendants’ sureties had not confirmed whether they would continue to stand for them in the new case.
The case has now been adjourned for further hearing on March 10, 2025.
