Ibadan stampede: Oyo files 18-count charges against Ooni’s ex-wife, Oriyomi Hamzat, and school principal. Justice sought for 35 children’s deaths.
The Ibadan stampede tragedy of December 2024, a catastrophic event that claimed the lives of over 35 children during a funfair event at the Islamic High School in Bashorun, has taken a dramatic turn as the Oyo State Government files an 18-count criminal charge against three key figures. The accused include the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, Naomi Silekunola, prominent radio proprietor Oriyomi Hamzat, and the school’s principal, Abdulahi Fasasi.
This unprecedented move marks a decisive step in the pursuit of justice, sending shockwaves across Nigeria’s socio-political and legal landscapes.
Legal Charges and Allegations
The criminal charges, filed on January 10, 2025, at the Oyo State High Court under charge number I/05C/2025, paint a grim picture of alleged negligence, conspiracy, and criminal acts. The accused face charges of conspiracy to commit murder, manslaughter, and criminal negligence, offences that underscore their purported failure to provide basic safety measures during the ill-fated event.
The prosecution argues that their negligence directly resulted in the stampede, which claimed the lives of 35 children, with 14 victims explicitly named in court documents.
According to the charge sheet, the trio “did negligently omit to provide adequate security, crowd control mechanisms, and medical facilities, resulting in the death of Musiliu Sofiat, aged 8, and 34 other children.” These acts are violations of Sections 308 and 344 of the Criminal Code, CAP 38, Vol II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
The separate four-count charge against the school principal, Fasasi, further alleges additional lapses in safety protocols and responsibilities, deepening the legal quagmire for the defendants.
The Tragedy Unfolds
The funfair, which was expected to be a joyous occasion, turned into a nightmarish scene of chaos and death. Eyewitness accounts described an overwhelming crowd, poor crowd control measures, and an utter lack of emergency medical response.
Parents recounted the horror of searching through lifeless bodies for their children, as the event’s organisers scrambled to manage the fallout. The tragic loss of innocent lives has left a scar on the collective psyche of Ibadan residents and the nation at large.
Public outrage has been relentless, with many questioning how such glaring lapses in safety could occur at an event attended predominantly by children. The involvement of high-profile figures like Naomi Silekunola and Oriyomi Hamzat has further fuelled intense public scrutiny and demands for accountability.
A Political and Social Reckoning
The legal action against Silekunola and Hamzat has ignited a broader debate about the responsibilities of influential individuals in society. Naomi Silekunola, once revered as the wife of the Ooni of Ife, has seen her public image tarnished in the wake of these allegations. Critics argue that her involvement in the organisation of the event reflects a failure of moral and social responsibility, while others see her prosecution as a politically motivated attack designed to neutralise her influence.
Oriyomi Hamzat, a celebrated figure in Ibadan’s media landscape, faces a similar backlash. Known for his outspoken commentary and philanthropic endeavours, Hamzat’s reputation hangs in the balance as the legal proceedings unfold. His supporters claim he is being unfairly targeted, while detractors point to his alleged negligence as indicative of a broader culture of impunity among Nigeria’s elite.
The Role of the State Government
The Oyo State Government’s decision to file fresh charges against the accused underscores its commitment to ensuring accountability. Legal experts suggest that the 18-count charge is a strategic move to strengthen the prosecution’s case, particularly as the Director of Public Prosecution’s (DPP) advice is yet to be finalised. Sources indicate that the new charges stem from recommendations made during the DPP’s review of the incident.
Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration has faced mounting pressure to demonstrate its commitment to justice and public safety. The governor’s spokesperson emphasised that the legal action is not only about securing justice for the victims but also about sending a clear message that negligence and disregard for human life will not be tolerated in Oyo State.
A Divided Public Opinion
The case has polarised public opinion, with many calling for swift and decisive justice for the victims. Advocacy groups and civil society organisations have rallied behind the families of the deceased, demanding transparency and accountability in the legal process. Meanwhile, supporters of the accused argue that the charges are excessive and politically motivated.
The involvement of prominent figures has also highlighted the intersection of privilege and accountability in Nigeria’s justice system. Critics argue that the wealthy and influential often evade justice, citing past incidents where high-profile defendants faced little to no consequences for their actions. The outcome of this case is seen as a litmus test for the credibility of Nigeria’s judicial system.
Broader Implications for Event Safety
Beyond the courtroom, the Ibadan stampede has sparked a nationwide conversation about safety protocols at public events. Experts have pointed to systemic failures in planning, regulation, and enforcement as contributing factors to the tragedy. The absence of strict guidelines for crowd control, emergency preparedness, and medical response has left many events vulnerable to similar disasters.
The Nigerian government, at both state and federal levels, faces renewed calls to prioritise public safety. Advocacy groups have urged the enactment of stricter regulations and the establishment of a dedicated agency to oversee event safety. The Ibadan tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglecting these critical issues.
The Path to Justice
As the case progresses, the families of the victims continue to grapple with their loss. Many have expressed hope that the legal proceedings will bring closure and justice. However, the road ahead is fraught with challenges, including potential delays, legal wrangling, and the influence of powerful interests.
The Oyo State High Court’s handling of this case will be closely watched, not only by the families of the victims but also by a nation grappling with questions of justice, accountability, and the sanctity of human life. The outcome will undoubtedly shape public perceptions of Nigeria’s legal system and its ability to deliver justice impartially.
In conclusion. the Ibadan stampede tragedy stands as a somber reminder of the fragility of human life and the dire consequences of negligence. The Oyo State Government’s decision to prosecute Naomi Silekunola, Oriyomi Hamzat, and Abdulahi Fasasi represents a pivotal moment in the pursuit of justice.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the nation watches with bated breath, hoping for a resolution that honours the memory of the lives lost and sets a precedent for accountability in Nigeria.
Additional report by: Peter Jene
Atlantic Post Senior National Correspondent
