The Oyo State Government has filed an 18-count charge against the ex-queen of the Ooni of Ife, Naomi Silekunola, radio station owner Oriyomi Hamzat, and Abdulahi Fasasi, the Principal of Islamic High School, Ibadan, in connection with the tragic stampede at a children’s funfair on December 18, 2024. The incident, which took place during a holiday celebration, led to the deaths of 35 children.
The charges, filed before the Oyo State High Court on January 10, 2025, include accusations of murder, manslaughter, conspiracy to commit a felony, and criminal negligence. The government, listed as the complainant in the case, accuses the defendants of failing to provide adequate security, crowd control, and medical facilities during the event, which ultimately led to the fatal stampede.
Among the 14 children named in the charge sheet are Musiliu Sofiat, aged 8; Lekan Salami, aged 7; and Feyikemi Salam, a 1.5-year-old girl. Their tragic deaths are attributed to the defendants’ negligence in preventing the overcrowded and dangerous conditions at the funfair.
The prosecution maintains that the defendants’ oversight directly caused the deaths of the children, citing violations under Sections 308 and 344 of the Criminal Code, CAP 38, Vol II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000. Fasasi faces four charges, including conspiracy, negligent acts causing harm, and failure to ensure the safety of attendees.
The accused have been in police custody since December 24, 2024, following their arrests. Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has vowed to ensure the defendants are held accountable for their actions, pledging that the state will vigorously pursue justice for the victims and their families.
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