By: Bayero Ade
Justice K.B. Olawoyin of the Oyo State High Court, Ring Road, Ibadan, has set January 13, 2025, as the date to rule on the bail applications of three defendants connected to the tragic Ibadan stampede. The defendants include Naomi Silekunola, former Queen of Ife; Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat, owner of Agidigbo FM; and Abdulahi Fasasi, Principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun.
According to PUNCH, the defendants are facing charges linked to a stampede that occurred during a Christmas funfair at Islamic High School, Bashorun, in December 2024, leading to the deaths of at least 35 children.
The court session on Tuesday saw lawyers for the defendants argue separately for their clients’ release on bail. Musibau Adetunmbi (SAN) represented Silekunola, Adekunle Sobaloju (SAN) appeared for Hamzat, while Waheed Olajide stood for Fasasi.
The prosecution, led by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, strongly opposed the bail applications. Aikomo’s team argued that granting bail could undermine the judicial process, maintaining that there was sufficient evidence to keep the defendants in custody.
Defense counsel, however, countered by insisting that the evidence presented was inadequate to justify prolonged detention. They urged the court to grant their clients bail while awaiting trial.
After hearing arguments from both sides, Justice Olawoyin postponed the decision, stating that the court would deliver its ruling on January 13. Meanwhile, the accused persons remain in detention at the Nigerian Correctional Centre, Agodi.
The case has attracted widespread public attention due to the devastating nature of the incident and the high-profile individuals involved.
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