Some residents of Ibadan took to the streets in protest following the court’s decision to remand the Ooni’s ex-wife, Naomi Ogunwusi, Oriyomi Hamzat, and a school principal over their alleged roles in a tragic stampede.
Recall that a magistrate court in Ibadan on Tuesday ordered the remand of Abdullahi Fasasi, the principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun Ibadan, the proprietor of Agidigbo FM, Oriyomi Hamzat, and Naomi Silekunola, an estranged wife of the Ooni of Ife, in connection with the tragic stampede resulting in deaths of over 36 children last week.
Chief Magistrate Olabisi Ogunkanmi, who presided over the hearing, issued the order after the Oyo State police command arraigned the trio.
The police prosecutor outlined four-count charges related to the incident, citing a violation of Section 324 of the Criminal Code, Cap. 38, Vol. II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
Mr Ogunkanmi, after hearing the charges, ordered that the trio be held at Agodi Correctional Centre pending further guidance from the state prosecutor.
She, thereafter, adjourned the matter until Jan. 13 for mention.
Earlier, the prosecuting counsel, Police Inspector Sikiru Opaleye, had told the court that the defendants were facing a four-count charge bordering on conspiracy, murder, and negligent acts causing harm.
He stated that the defendants allegedly invited some children for a funfair programme but failed to provide a conducive atmosphere with adequate security and medical facilities.
“The eventual stampede at the venue allegedly accelerated the death of eight-year-old Sofiat Musiliu, a female, and 34 others between the ages of five months to 13 years,” the prosecutor said.
However, after the ruling, some residents were sighted in a video protesting the remand of trio especially Oriyomi, saying act of acts of goodwill should not be criminalized.
“Release, Oriyomi, what has he done. He was trying to help,” they said.
The Oyo State Police Command had on Thursday announced the arrest of Naomi Silekunola, alongside seven others. Ms Silekunola was a key organiser of the event, which was a children’s Christmas party organised by WINGS (Women In Need of Guidance and Support), a foundation she established.
Recall that the tragedy occurred on Wednesday at the Islamic High School in Bashorun, Ibadan, during a Fun Fair carnival event meant to bring joy to children but ended in chaos.
The Oyo Police Command’s spokesperson, Adewale Osifeso, said at the time that 35 minors were killed while six other individuals were critically injured in the stampede that occurred during the children’s Christmas party.
“Sequel to the stampede incident recorded on Wednesday, 18/12/2024, at the Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, venue of the family event organised by Wings Foundation and media partners Agidigbo FM, the Oyo State Police Command wishes to inform the public that eight persons have since been arrested for their various involvements,” the statement by Mr Osifeso, a superintendent of police, read at the time.
The statement noted, “So far, 35 minors have been confirmed dead, while six others are critically injured and undergoing various medical interventions. Residents are advised to remain calm, as heightened police patrols and visible security presence will continue to ensure public safety.”
Other suspects detained include Oriyomi Hamzat (52), Fasasi Abdulahi (56), Genesis Christopher (24), Tanimowo Moruf (52), Anisolaja Olabode (42), Idowu Ibrahim (35), and Abiola Oluwatimilehin (25).
The police later transferred the case to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department in Iyaganku, with the Deputy Commissioner of Police leading the investigation.
See video here;
Video Source: TVC News
