A Chief Magistrate’s Court in Iyaganku, Ibadan, has ordered the remand of Naomi Silekunola, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife; Oriyomi Hamzat, CEO of Agidigbo FM; and Abdullahi Fasasi, Principal of Islamic High School.
The three were arraigned on Tuesday in connection with the tragic stampede at a Christmas funfair held at Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan. The incident, which occurred last week, claimed the lives of 35 children and left six others injured.
The defendants are facing a four-count charge, which the police prosecutor stated violated Section 324 of the Criminal Code, Cap. 38, Vol. II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
The prosecutor alleged that their roles contributed to the stampede that turned a festive event into a tragedy.
Chief Magistrate Olabisi Ogunkanmi, presiding over the case, ordered the remand of the suspects at the Agodi Correctional Centre. The court awaits legal advice from the Oyo State Director of Public Prosecutions before proceeding with further hearings.
The courtroom, heavily guarded by law enforcement officers, drew a large crowd as the suspects were escorted in and out of the premises.
The tragedy has sparked widespread grief and calls for accountability. The remand order means the defendants will remain in custody while the DPP reviews the charges and provides legal advice.
