Residents of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria took to the streets in protest following a magistrate court’s decision to remand Naomi Silekunola, the estranged wife of the Ooni of Ife, popular broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat, and a school principal, Abdullahi Fasasi, over their alleged roles in a tragic stampede.
The incident, which occurred during a children’s Christmas funfair at Islamic High School, Bashorun, left 35 minors dead and six others critically injured. The event was organized by Wings Foundation, founded by Ms. Silekunola, in collaboration with Agidigbo FM.
Chief Magistrate Olabisi Ogunkanmi, presiding over the case, ordered that the defendants be held at Agodi Correctional Centre pending further directives from the state prosecutor. The court adjourned the case until January 13, 2025.
Police prosecutor Inspector Sikiru Opaleye presented a four-count charge against the defendants, including conspiracy, murder, and negligent acts causing harm. He alleged that inadequate security and safety measures at the funfair led to the fatal stampede.
“The defendants invited children for a funfair programme but failed to provide a conducive atmosphere with adequate security and medical facilities,” Opaleye said. He added that the stampede accelerated the deaths of 35 minors aged between five months and 13 years.
Following the court ruling, protesters expressed their dissatisfaction, particularly in defense of Oriyomi Hamzat. In a viral video, they were heard chanting, “Release Oriyomi! What has he done? He was trying to help.”
The Oyo State Police Command had earlier arrested eight suspects, including Ms. Silekunola, Oriyomi Hamzat, and Fasasi Abdulahi. The suspects were charged with negligence leading to the loss of lives during the December 18 tragedy.
In a statement, police spokesperson Adewale Osifeso reassured residents of ongoing investigations led by the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department in Iyaganku. “So far, 35 minors have been confirmed dead, while six others are critically injured and undergoing medical interventions,” Osifeso said.
The tragic incident has sparked widespread discussions on safety measures for public events, with community leaders and activists calling for stricter regulations to prevent future occurrences.
