The Oyo State Government has initiated an eight-count charge against the estranged wife of the Ooni of Ife, Naomi Silekunola; the proprietor of an Ibadan-based radio station, Oriyomi Hamzat; and the Principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, Abdulahi Fasasi. The charges stem from the tragic stampede at a children’s funfair on December 18, 2024, which claimed the lives of 35 individuals.
The charges, filed under case number I/05C/2025, were presented at the Oyo State High Court in Ibadan on Friday, January 10, 2025. The government accused the defendants of conspiracy, criminal negligence, and acts leading to murder and manslaughter. These offenses are said to contravene Section 324 of the Criminal Code, CAP 38, Vol II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
The prosecution alleges that the defendants failed to ensure adequate security, crowd control, and medical facilities at the funfair, leading to the tragic stampede. Among the victims were 14 children whose names were listed in the charge sheet. These included Musiliu Sofiat (8 years), Lekan Salami (7 years), Feyikemi Salam (1.5 years), and others aged between one and 18 years.
The state maintained that the defendants’ negligence resulted in the deaths and accused them of failing to take necessary precautions to prevent the tragedy.
Fasasi, one of the defendants, faces four specific charges, including conspiracy, acceleration of death, negligence causing harm, and failing to provide adequate safety and medical facilities.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde previously vowed to ensure justice for the victims and their families, emphasizing the state’s commitment to prosecuting those responsible.
The defendants have been in custody since December 24, following their arrest by police authorities.