A Chief Magistrate Court in Iyaganku, Ibadan, Oyo State, on Tuesday made a pivotal ruling concerning the tragic stampede that occurred at Bashorun Islamic High School. This incident, which took place on December 18, 2024, resulted in the deaths of at least 35 children and left several others injured.
The court ordered the remand of three key figures connected to this devastating event: Mr. Abdullahi Fasasi, the principal of the school; Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat, the proprietor of Agidigbo FM; and Naomi Silekunola, the estranged wife of Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ile Ife.
The proceedings were presided over by Chief Magistrate Olabisi Ogunkanmi, who ruled that the defendants be held at the Agodi Correctional Centre while awaiting further guidance from the state prosecutor.
The charges against them include four counts related to the incident, as outlined by the police prosecutor. These charges are said to violate Section 324 of the Criminal Code, Cap. 38, Vol. II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
The stampede occurred during a religious festival organized by the Wings Foundation and Agidigbo FM, which was intended to be a joyous occasion for young people. However, the event turned tragic when a crowd crush ensued, leading to the loss of young lives.
According to reports, as many as 5,000 young people were expected to attend the event, where they were promised exciting prizes such as scholarships and other gifts.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the Oyo State Police Command launched a homicide investigation, resulting in the arrest of eight individuals for their involvement in the incident. Among those detained was the main sponsor of the event. Adewale Osifeso, a spokesperson for the police command, confirmed the arrests and the ongoing investigation.
The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, expressed his condolences to the families affected by the tragedy. In a message shared on social media, he stated, "Our hearts remain with the families and loved ones impacted by this tragedy. May the souls of the departed rest in peace. We sympathize with the parents whose joy has suddenly been turned to mourning due to these deaths."
The court proceedings attracted massive attention, with a large crowd of family members and interested parties gathered outside the courthouse. The heightened security underlined the gravity of the situation and the public's interest in the case.
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