The Ooni of Ife’s ex-queen, Naomi Silekunola, broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat, and Abdulahi Fasasi, Principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun, have regained their freedom.
The trio was released on Tuesday, 21 days after being remanded at the Agodi Correctional Centre over the tragic December 18, 2024, stampede that claimed the lives of 35 children in Ibadan. 
Their release follows a ruling by Justice K.B. Olawoyin of the Oyo State High Court, who granted bail on Monday.
Each defendant was admitted to bail in the sum of ₦10 million, with two sureties in like sum.
The judge emphasized that their detention under a holding charge was unconstitutional and infringed on their rights, particularly since the tragedy was deemed unpremeditated.
“There is no place in Nigerian law for a holding charge, and keeping them in custody would amount to an infringement on their rights, especially without taking them to the right court that could entertain the charges against them,” Justice Olawoyin stated.
The judge also dismissed the state government’s objections to the bail application, highlighting that the charges of murder, manslaughter, and criminal negligence require further investigation.
Upon his release, Hamzat returned to Agidigbo FM, where he was greeted by a massive crowd of supporters.
In an emotional address, he said, “Oriyomi is back. At this time, I am in a moment of silence. Thank you very much.”
The defendants face 18 counts, including allegations of “negligently omitting to provide adequate security, crowd control mechanisms, and medical facilities to prevent a stampede at a children’s funfair.”
The Oyo State Government alleges that this negligence led to the deaths of children such as Musiliu Sofiat (8 years), Lekan Salami (7 years), and Babatunde Toheeb (18 years).
The prosecution, in the charge sheet marked I/05C/2025, cited Sections 308 and 344 of the Criminal Code, CAP 38, Vol II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
The tragic event continues to serve as a grim reminder of the importance of safety measures at public gatherings.
Families of the victims have expressed mixed emotions, with many still grappling with the loss of their loved ones.
Meanwhile, the release of the defendants is viewed as a pivotal moment in the ongoing legal proceedings.
This case also raises concerns about the management of large-scale events and the accountability of organizers.
Observers hope the tragedy will spark reforms in event planning to prevent similar incidents.
