A Chief Magistrate Court sitting in Iyaganku, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital has ordered the remand of Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, alongside Oriyomi Hamzat, the Chairman of Agidigbo FM, and the Principal of Islamic High School, Fasasi Abdulahi linked to the tragic stampede at a children’s funfair in Ibadan at the Agodi Correctional Facility.
The court, presided over by Chief Magistrate Olabisi Ogunkanmi, gave the order earlier today following the arraignment of the trio by the Oyo State government. The court decided to order the remand of the defendants pending advice from the office of Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) of the Oyo State Ministry of Justice.
The incident, which took place on 18 December 2024 at the Islamic High School in Bashorun, Ibadan, resulted in the tragic loss of 35 young lives and left several others injured. Reports indicate that the stampede occurred when a large crowd rushed the main gate of the event venue, causing chaos and panic.
Naomi Silekunola, known for her philanthropy through her organisation, Women in Need of Guidance and Support (WINGS), was one of the key organisers of the event. In collaboration with Agidigbo FM, the funfair was meant to provide joy and entertainment for children during the festive season The Chief Magistrate Court, presided over by Chief Magistrate Olabisi Ogunkanmi, gave the order earlier today while responding to the severity of the incident, has decided to remand these individuals while investigations continue.
Following the incident, the Oyo State Police Command arrested eight individuals, including Naomi and Hamzat, on charges related to the stampede.
They were arraigned on a four-count charge of conspiracy, acceleration of death, negligent acts causing harm, and failure to provide adequate security and medical facilities.
Eighteen-Eleven Media