The Oyo State Government has formally dropped criminal charges against Naomi Silekunola, former wife of the Ooni of Ife; Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat, owner of Agidigbo FM; and Abdullahi Fasasi, Principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan.
The case stemmed from the tragic stampede that claimed the lives of over 35 children during a festive event in December 2024.
Following the court’s decision on Thursday, the defendants appeared visibly relieved, exchanging smiles and pleasantries after their discharge from the case.
Confirming the development, Oyo State Attorney-General, Abiodun Aikomo, addressed journalists after the court session.
Speaking on the matter, he stated: “It was an unfortunate incident that led to the death of many. And you see, in law, whenever death occurs and the circumstances are not natural, the law will take its course. So, the state responded by filing charges against the persons implicated in the investigation.
“In the course of doing that, we actually wanted to prosecute, but the affected persons showed empathy. They showed compassion. And as far as human beings can do, they try to soothe the feelings of the affected parties.
“And in the circumstance, we felt the essence of prosecution is not to kill people or persecute them. It is in the interest of justice to discontinue these charges, and that is what happened today.”
The withdrawal of charges follows an intense period of legal proceedings.
Earlier, the Oyo State High Court in Ibadan had granted bail to Naomi, Hamzat, and Fasasi.
The ruling, delivered by Justice Kamorudeen Olawoyin, came after the defendants presented their bail applications.
Naomi was granted bail in the sum of N10 million with two sureties, while Hamzat and Fasasi received similar bail conditions.
The court also ordered them to surrender their passports and barred them from granting interviews, restricting their public engagements.
The case arose from the tragic stampede at Islamic High School, Bashorun, during a children’s event in December 2024, which resulted in the deaths of dozens of young children.
The incident left victims’ families and the public in shock, marking one of the worst tragedies in recent memory in Oyo State.
During the trial, the prosecution, led by the Attorney-General, initially opposed bail, citing the severity of the case and the need for justice for the victims.
However, the defense team argued that the accused had cooperated with investigations and did not pose a flight risk.
