The trial of Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat, and school principal Abdulahib Fasasi, who face charges over the tragic deaths of 35 children during a Christmas funfair in Ibadan, has been postponed. The Chief Magistrate Court in Oyo State announced the adjournment on Monday, moving the next hearing to March 24, 2025.
The incident, which occurred on December 18, 2024, sent shockwaves through the country. The stampede, which claimed the lives of dozens of young attendees, has remained a painful memory for the families involved.
The three defendants are charged with conspiracy, murder, manslaughter, and negligence. The charges stem from allegations that they failed to implement adequate safety measures during the event, leading to the tragic loss of life.
Background of the Incident
The Christmas funfair, organized to celebrate the festive season, turned into a nightmare when overcrowding at the venue led to a deadly stampede. Eyewitness accounts described a chaotic scene as children scrambled for safety amid limited exits and poor crowd control.
“The situation could have been avoided if proper safety protocols were in place,” said an attendee who narrowly escaped the chaos. Public outrage followed the tragedy, with many questioning why an event meant for children lacked sufficient planning.
Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, has been a controversial figure in Nigerian society. Her involvement in the case has drawn significant public attention. Oriyomi Hamzat, a well-known Ibadan-based broadcaster and chairman of a prominent radio station, and Abdulahib Fasasi, the principal of Islamic High School, Basorun, also face scrutiny for their alleged roles in the event’s organization.
Legal Journey So Far
The defendants were initially arraigned on a holden charge, a temporary legal mechanism not recognized under Nigerian law. Following their remand in custody, the defendants’ legal team successfully secured bail at the High Court. However, the case has encountered multiple procedural delays, leaving victims’ families frustrated.
On Monday, the case was set for mention before Chief Magistrate Olayemi Ayinde. However, proceedings were adjourned when it was revealed that the defendants had not yet been served with formal charges.
Speaking to journalists, Oriyomi Hamzat’s defense counsel, Dapo Akinosi, explained the adjournment:
“The matter today was actually slated for mention because when they were arraigned initially, it was on a holden charge, which is not recognized by our law. They were remanded in prison as a result of that charge.”
He added, “We subsequently applied to the High Court, where bail was granted to the defendants. Legal advice has now been issued, and the proper information has been filed against them. However, they are yet to be served with the information. Today, we came to court so that the charge here could be withdrawn.”
Victims’ Families Seek Justice
Families of the 35 children who lost their lives continue to demand accountability. Many have expressed dissatisfaction with the slow pace of justice and the perceived lack of urgency from the authorities.
“The delay is unbearable,” said a grieving father. “We just want to know why our children were put in harm’s way and for those responsible to face the consequences.”
Civil society groups have also weighed in, calling for comprehensive investigations into event safety regulations and enforcement across Nigeria.
Calls for Stricter Regulations
The tragedy has reignited discussions on public safety and event management standards in the country. Experts argue that regulatory bodies need to enforce stricter guidelines for large gatherings, especially those involving children.
A safety consultant, who spoke on condition of anonymity, remarked, “This isn’t just about one event; it’s about a systemic failure to prioritize safety. If this case sets a precedent, it could force organizers to rethink how they plan and execute events in Nigeria.”
What’s Next?
The adjournment gives the defendants time to prepare their plea at the High Court, where formal charges will be heard. Until then, the public and victims’ families will have to wait for progress in the legal process.
As the March 24, 2025, date approaches, all eyes remain on the court proceedings. The case has become a litmus test for accountability in Nigeria’s legal and safety systems.
For now, the pain of those affected remains raw. “Our children deserved better,” a mother lamented. “We hope this trial will finally bring closure.”
