The Oyo State Government has brought an 18-count criminal charge against Naomi Silekunola, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, radio owner Oriyomi Hamzat, and Abdullahi Fasasi, the Principal of Islamic High School, following the tragic stampede at a children’s funfair in Ibadan that resulted in the deaths of over 35 people.
Filed at the Oyo State High Court on January 10, 2025, the charges accuse the three individuals of various offences, including conspiracy to commit murder, manslaughter, and criminal negligence.
According to the charge sheet (obtained by Punch on Sunday), their alleged failure to provide proper security, crowd control, and medical facilities at the event contributed to the stampede, which caused the deaths of 35 children, among others.
The charges are based on Sections 308, 344, and 517 of the Criminal Code, CAP 38, Vol II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
Additionally, school principal Mr. Fasasi faces four extra charges relating to conspiracy, negligence, and failing to ensure safety during the event.
Although the Director of Public Prosecution’s advice is still awaited, the legal action by the government highlights its commitment to pursuing justice for the victims of the tragedy, which has sparked widespread public outrage.
