In a dramatic twist to the December 18, 2024, funfair stampede that claimed the lives of 35 children in Ibadan, the Oyo State Government has filed an eight-count charge against Naomi Silekunola, the ex-queen of the Ooni of Ife; Oriyomi Hamzat, proprietor of a popular Ibadan-based radio station; and Abdulahi Fasasi, the Principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan.
The charges, which were filed on January 10, 2025, before the Oyo State High Court in Ibadan under charge number I/05C/2025, accuse the defendants of conspiracy to commit murder, manslaughter, criminal negligence, and related offenses. These crimes, according to the prosecution, are contrary to and punishable under Section 324 of the Criminal Code, CAP 38, Vol II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
The tragic incident unfolded during a highly publicized children’s funfair, which ended in chaos when overcrowding led to a fatal stampede. The prosecution alleges that the event was poorly managed, and the defendants failed to enforce adequate safety measures, resulting in the loss of innocent lives.
Court documents reveal the devastating toll of the stampede. Among the 35 victims were children as young as 1.5 years old. Names of some of the deceased include Musiliu Sofiat, an eight-year-old girl; Feyikemi Salam, a 1.5-year-old girl; and Laeef Muisi, an eight-year-old boy. Other victims, such as 18-year-old Babatunde Toheeb, highlight the broad age range of those who tragically perished.
The names and ages of 14 victims were listed in the charge sheet, giving a human face to the tragedy. This move, legal analysts suggest, could be part of the government’s strategy to emphasize the gravity of the loss and the negligence that allegedly caused it.
Silekunola, Hamzat, and Fasasi are accused of failing to adhere to basic safety protocols and ensuring crowd control at the event. Prosecutors argue that their collective negligence directly contributed to the deaths, turning what should have been a joyous occasion into a nightmare.
The charges also highlight the alleged roles played by the defendants:
Naomi Silekunola, as a prominent public figure and organizer, is accused of endorsing the event without due diligence.
Oriyomi Hamzat, with his media influence, allegedly promoted the funfair, drawing an overwhelming crowd without ensuring that safety standards were met.
Abdulahi Fasasi, as the principal of the host school, is said to have failed to implement necessary safety measures within the premises.
The stampede has sparked widespread outrage, with civil society organizations and parents of the victims demanding justice. The government’s decision to press criminal charges against high-profile individuals like the ex-queen of Ife has added a new dimension to the case, signaling its determination to hold all parties accountable, regardless of their status.
Legal experts note that the case could set a precedent for event organizers and public figures, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing public safety.
As the trial begins, all eyes are on the Oyo State High Court. For the families of the victims, the proceedings represent a glimmer of hope for justice. For the defendants, it is a fight to clear their names in the face of damning accusations.
The case also serves as a somber reminder of the need for stricter regulations and enforcement in organizing public events, ensuring that such a tragedy never happens again.
The court proceedings are expected to begin in the coming weeks, with the public anxiously awaiting the outcome of what promises to be one of the most gripping legal battles in recent times.
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