A Chief Magistrate in Ibadan, Mrs. Olabisi Ogunkanmi, has ordered the remand of Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife; Oriyomi Hamzat, the owner of Agidigbo FM; and Fasasi Abdulahi, the Principal of Bashorun Islamic High School, at the Agodi Correctional Facility. This decision is pending legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) of the Oyo State Ministry of Justice.
The three were arraigned on Tuesday before the Chief Magistrate Court 1, Iyaganku, Ibadan, on a four-count charge including conspiracy, negligent acts causing harm, acceleration of death, and failure to provide adequate security and medical facilities.
The charges stem from a tragic stampede during a Christmas funfair held at Bashorun Islamic High School, Ibadan, which resulted in the deaths of 35 children and injuries to six others.
The court premises were tense as supporters of Oriyomi Hamzat gathered, but a heavy police presence maintained order. Tensions heightened as police vans transporting the suspects departed the court, though security forces managed to prevent escalation.
According to the police prosecutor, the defendants’ actions violated Section 324 of the Criminal Code, Cap. 38, Vol. II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
Chief Magistrate Ogunkanmi ruled that the suspects be held in custody at the Agodi Correctional Centre until the DPP provides legal advice. The case has drawn widespread public attention, with law enforcement ensuring the suspects’ safety during the court proceedings.
