The Oyo State High Court in Ibadan has granted bail to Naomi Silekunola, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, along with Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat, owner of Agidigbo FM, and Abdullahi Fasasi, Principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun. The trio faced charges linked to the tragic stampede that claimed the lives of 35 children during a festive event in December 2024.
Presiding over the case on Monday, Justice Kamorudeen Olawoyin approved the bail applications after reviewing submissions from both the defense and the prosecution. Hamzat was granted bail on stringent conditions, including a N10 million bond and the provision of two sureties. Additionally, the court imposed a media restriction, directing Agidigbo FM to refrain from airing any reports related to the case.
A Nation in Mourning
The tragedy unfolded during a children’s festive party at Islamic High School, Bashorun, where a stampede broke out, leading to the untimely deaths of dozens of children. The incident sent shockwaves across Nigeria, prompting widespread calls for accountability.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, in his reaction, assured citizens that justice would be served. “This is a tragedy that has shaken us to our core,” he said. “We owe it to the victims and their families to ensure those responsible are held accountable.”
Legal Battle Intensifies
The bail applications were initially filed last Tuesday, but the court delayed its decision, leaving the defendants in custody. The defense team, led by seasoned attorneys, argued that the accused posed no flight risk and had pledged full cooperation with investigations.
“They are responsible individuals with strong ties to the community,” one of the defense lawyers stated during the hearing. “This court must consider their constitutional right to bail.”
However, the prosecution, led by Oyo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, opposed the applications. Aikomo highlighted the severity of the charges and the need to uphold justice for the deceased children and their grieving families.
“These are not trivial allegations,” Aikomo argued. “Thirty-five innocent lives were lost. The court must weigh the gravity of this tragedy against the defendants’ plea for freedom.”
Bail Conditions and Restrictions
Justice Olawoyin, after considering the arguments, ruled in favor of the defendants’ bail but imposed strict conditions. In addition to the financial and surety requirements for Hamzat, the court’s directive for Agidigbo FM to abstain from broadcasting case-related content has drawn significant attention. This ruling aims to prevent any undue influence on public opinion or interference with the judicial process.
While granting bail does not signify the defendants’ exoneration, it underscores the court’s commitment to a fair trial. “Bail is not an acquittal,” a legal analyst commented. “It ensures the defendants’ liberty while the judicial process takes its course.”
The Human Toll
The ill-fated event at Islamic High School was meant to bring joy to children during the festive season. Instead, it turned into a scene of chaos and tragedy. Eyewitnesses recounted how overcrowding and poor crowd control led to the deadly stampede.
A parent who lost two children in the incident tearfully recounted, “I sent my kids there for happiness, but they never came back. This pain is unimaginable.”
The tragedy has sparked debates on the safety standards for public events, particularly those involving children. Advocacy groups have called for stricter regulations and enforcement to prevent such incidents in the future.
Government’s Stance
Governor Makinde has reiterated his administration’s commitment to justice while maintaining a balanced approach. “We are not against granting bail, but those found culpable must face the full weight of the law,” he stated during a press briefing.
Makinde also announced plans to review event safety protocols across the state, emphasizing the need for preventative measures. “This is a wake-up call for all of us,” he added.
Broader Implications
The case has sparked a broader conversation about accountability in Nigeria, particularly involving high-profile individuals. The inclusion of prominent figures like Naomi Silekunola and Oriyomi Hamzat has drawn significant public attention, with many questioning the role of influence and privilege in the judicial process.
Civil society organizations have urged the judiciary to remain impartial. “This is not just about the accused; it’s about restoring public trust in our justice system,” said a representative of a local human rights group.
What’s Next?
As the trial proceeds, the court’s focus will shift to the substantive issues surrounding the stampede. The prosecution is expected to present evidence detailing the alleged negligence and lapses that led to the tragedy.
For now, the defendants are out on bail, but their freedom comes with heavy scrutiny. The eyes of the nation are on the judicial process, with many hoping it will bring closure to one of the darkest chapters in recent memory.
