An Oyo State High Court in Ibadan has approved bail for Naomi Silekunola, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, along with two co-defendants. They are facing trial for alleged manslaughter in connection with the tragic Ibadan Stampede that claimed the lives of 35 children.
High Court Grants Bail to Defendants
The defendants, including Oriyomi Hamzat, CEO of Agidigbo Radio FM, and Abdullahi Fasasi, the principal of Islamic High School, were granted bail. Justice Kamorudeen Olawoyin set their bail at ₦10 million each, requiring two reliable sureties for each defendant.
Allegations Surrounding the Ibadan Stampede
The accused are facing charges of conspiracy, murder, negligence, and harm related to the Ibadan Stampede. The tragic event occurred during a Christmas funfair held at Islamic High School, Orita Basorun, Ibadan, on December 18, 2024.
Initial Court Proceedings
On December 24, 2024, the defendants were arraigned at the Iyaganku Magistrates’ Court. However, the Magistrate Court lacked jurisdiction due to the murder charges included in the case. As a result, the defendants were remanded at Agodi Correctional Centre.
Judge’s Rationale for Bail
Justice Olawoyin ruled that the constitution does not permit a “holding charge” and keeping the defendants in custody violated their rights. He emphasized that the Ibadan Stampede was not a premeditated act, making bail appropriate.
Bail Conditions for the Ibadan Stampede Defendants
The court directed the defendants to submit their international passports and prohibited them from granting press interviews during the trial. These conditions aim to prevent interference with the judicial process.
