The Chief Magistrate’s Court in Iyaganku, Ibadan, has ordered the remand of three individuals, including the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, Naomi Silekunola, in connection with a tragic stampede during a Christmas funfair.
The incident, which took place at Islamic High School in Bashorun, Ibadan, claimed the lives of 35 children and left six others injured.
Alongside Silekunola, the Chief Executive Officer of Agidigbo FM, Oriyomi Hamzat, and the school’s principal, Abdullahi Fasasi, were also arraigned. The trio faced heavy security as they were escorted to the court, drawing significant public attention due to the gravity of the case.
Presiding over the case, Chief Magistrate Olabisi Ogunkanmi directed their remand at the Agodi Correctional Centre. The court noted that the suspects are facing a four-count charge, with the prosecutor stating that their alleged actions violated Section 324 of the Criminal Code, Cap. 38, Vol. II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
The prosecution argued that the defendants played roles leading to the stampede, turning what should have been a joyful Christmas celebration into a devastating tragedy. The court also stated that the suspects would remain in custody pending legal advice from the Oyo State Director of Public Prosecutions.
