Oyo State Government Withdraws Charges in Ibadan Stampede Case

The Oyo State Government has officially withdrawn all criminal charges against Naomi Silekunola, the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, Oriyomi Hamzat, owner of Agidigbo FM, and Abdullahi Fasasi, principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan. The charges were related to a tragic stampede at a children's event in December 2024, which resulted in the deaths of at least 35 children.

The incident occurred during a crowded event at Islamic High School, Bashorun, where thousands of children had gathered. The stampede led to widespread grief and calls for accountability. Following investigations, the state government initially filed charges against the trio, including conspiracy to commit murder, manslaughter, and criminal negligence.

Abiodun Aikomo, Commissioner of Justice and Attorney-General of Oyo, confirmed the withdrawal after a court session. He explained that the decision was made because the defendants showed empathy and compassion towards the affected families. Aikomo emphasized, "It is in the interest of justice to discontinue these charges, and that is what happened today. So we withdrew the charge and it was struck out by the court. There is no charge against them again, so they are free."

Aikomo further noted, "Whenever unnatural deaths occur, the law must take its course. Initially, the state pursued prosecution, but the accused showed empathy and compassion. Justice is not about persecution but fairness."

The defendants appeared visibly relieved following the court's decision. Their legal representatives expressed gratitude for the amicable resolution, noting that an out-of-court settlement was reached with the families of the victims. Counsel to Fasasi, Abdulwaheed Olajide, stated that both sides decided to find an "amicable solution."

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