A Chief Magistrate’s Court in Ibadan has ordered the remand of three individuals, including Naomi Silekunola, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife; Oriyomi Hamzat, the CEO of Agidigbo FM; and Abdullahi Fasasi, the Principal of Islamic High School, following their arraignment in connection with the tragic stampede at a Christmas funfair last week.
The stampede, which occurred at the Islamic High School in Bashorun, Ibadan, claimed the lives of 35 children and left six others injured. The trio was charged with four counts related to the events that led to the deadly incident.
Chief Magistrate Olabisi Ogunkanmi, who presided over the case, issued the remand order after the suspects were brought to court under heavy security. The prosecution, led by the police prosecutor, argued that the defendants were responsible for the tragedy, which turned a festive celebration into a heartbreaking disaster.
The charges against the defendants contravene Section 324 of the Criminal Code, Cap. 38, Vol. II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000. The prosecution further alleged that their actions played a significant role in the overcrowding and chaos that ultimately led to the stampede.
As the court proceedings took place, public attention was drawn to the case, with many present to witness the proceedings. Law enforcement officers tightly guarded the suspects during their transportation to and from the court.
The court has directed that the defendants be remanded at the Agodi Correctional Centre while awaiting legal advice from the Oyo State Director of Public Prosecutions. The case has brought significant public attention to the importance of safety regulations at large gatherings, particularly during high-traffic events like Christmas celebrations.
The tragic incident has sparked widespread mourning and calls for increased measures to ensure the safety of attendees at public events across the state. The families of the victims continue to grieve, while the legal process moves forward to determine the accountability for the devastating tragedy.
