Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has declared that no individual, regardless of their status or influence, will escape justice over the tragic stampede at Islamic High School, Ibadan, which claimed the lives of 35 children on December 18, 2024. His statement comes amid mounting pressure and public outcry demanding accountability for the tragedy.
A Tragic Incident That Shook Ibadan
The ill-fated children’s funfair, held at the Islamic High School in Bashorun, Ibadan, ended in chaos when a stampede broke out, leaving dozens of young lives cut short. Eyewitness accounts suggest poor crowd control and inadequate planning contributed to the disaster. Heartbroken parents and families have since been demanding justice for their children.
Governor Makinde addressed the issue during the 2025 annual interfaith service held at the Governor’s Office Secretariat. “Thirty-five innocent souls were lost. This is a tragedy we cannot afford to sweep under the rug. By God’s grace, we will not witness such again in Oyo State,” Makinde vowed, his voice heavy with determination.
Prominent Figures in the Dock
The tragedy has placed high-profile individuals under scrutiny. Among those accused of negligence and misconduct are Queen Naomi Silekunola, a former wife of the Ooni of Ife; Oriyomi Hamzat, the owner of Agidigbo FM; and Fasasi Abdullahi Babatunde, the principal of Islamic High School. All three are currently being held at the Agodi Custodial Centre in Ibadan, pending trial.
The inclusion of such notable figures in the case has heightened public interest. Critics have questioned whether justice will truly be served, given the prominence of the accused.
Makinde’s Stand Against External Pressure
Governor Makinde revealed he has faced intense lobbying and inquiries from various quarters, urging leniency for the accused. “Quite a number of people reached out to me, asking why these individuals should not be allowed to go free. Some argued that similar incidents occurred in Anambra and Abuja, yet no one was held accountable,” Makinde disclosed.
However, the governor was resolute in his stance. “Oyo is not Anambra. Here, justice must be done, no matter how highly placed the individuals involved are,” he declared emphatically.
Legal Proceedings and Expectations
Makinde further emphasized that the judiciary holds the final say on the matter. “The judiciary is here to ensure justice. If they think it’s appropriate to grant bail pending trial, I will not interfere. But one thing is certain—they must face trial,” he stated.
Legal experts believe the case will set a significant precedent for handling similar incidents in Nigeria. The governor’s firm stance underscores his administration’s commitment to enforcing the rule of law.
Context and Past Incidents
Stampedes at public gatherings have become an unfortunate recurrence in Nigeria, often stemming from poor planning, overcrowding, and insufficient safety measures. In May 2022, a church-organized charity event in Port Harcourt resulted in a stampede that killed 31 people. Similarly, chaotic scenes at events in Abuja and Anambra have caused fatalities in recent years, with few or no prosecutions.
Makinde’s decision to pursue this case distinguishes Oyo State from other regions, where such incidents have often been met with silence or minimal accountability.
Public Reactions
Public opinion in Oyo State is divided. While some commend the governor’s unwavering commitment to justice, others express skepticism about whether the trial will deliver meaningful consequences.
“I am happy Governor Makinde is taking this seriously. This tragedy has left many families shattered, and someone must answer for it,” said Mrs. Adenike Olanrewaju, a parent in Ibadan.
However, others remain doubtful. “We’ve seen high-profile cases like this in Nigeria where the rich and powerful walk free. I hope this doesn’t turn out the same way,” said a skeptical resident, who preferred anonymity.
A Call for Safety Reforms
Beyond the trial, there are calls for comprehensive reforms in event planning and safety protocols. Experts argue that the government must introduce stricter regulations and enforce them rigorously to prevent future tragedies.
“The deaths of those children should serve as a wake-up call for the government and event organizers. Safety must be prioritized over profit,” said Dr. Tunde Ajayi, a safety consultant based in Lagos.
“No One Is Above the Law”
In his closing remarks at the interfaith service, Governor Makinde reiterated his determination to ensure accountability. “Even if the entire country decides not to follow the rule of law, Oyo State will dare to be different,” he said.
His words echo the sentiments of grieving families who hope that justice will not only be served but will also pave the way for safer events in the future. For them, the loss of their children is an irreplaceable tragedy, but accountability offers a glimmer of solace in their pain.
