Naomi Silekunola, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, alongside Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat, owner of Agidigbo FM, and Abdullahi Fasasi, principal of Islamic High School in Bashorun, have been granted bail by the Oyo State High Court in Ibadan.
The trio faced charges related to a tragic stampede during a children’s celebration in December 2024, which claimed the lives of at least 35 children. The court’s decision has sparked widespread reactions, as the case continues to draw significant public attention.
On Monday, Justice Kamorudeen Olawoyin granted bail to Oriyomi Hamzat in the sum of ₦10 million, with the condition of providing two sureties. Additionally, the court issued an order barring his media station, Agidigbo FM, from broadcasting any news related to the case.
The defendants, including Hamzat, presented their bail applications last Tuesday, arguing they posed no flight risk and were committed to cooperating with the investigation. However, the Oyo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, opposed the motion, citing the severity of the charges and the need to ensure justice for the victims and their families.
Adekunle Shobaloju (SAN), counsel to Oriyomi Hamzat, expressed optimism about the court’s ruling. “We argued for his admission to bail pending arraignment based on certain grounds, which I prefer not to elaborate on,” he said.
The tragic stampede occurred during a festive celebration at Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, where overcrowding led to the deaths of over 35 children and several injuries. Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has emphasized the importance of justice for the victims, insisting that those responsible for planning and managing the event face trial. However, he clarified that he does not oppose the bail granted to the accused.
Despite the legal battles, Oriyomi Hamzat has maintained that this situation will not deter him from continuing his philanthropic work and helping others in need.