IBADAN— The Iyaganku Chief Magistrate Court in Ibadan has ordered the remand of Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, a former Queen of the Ooni of Ife; Oriyomi Hamzat, the proprietor of Agidigbo FM; and Abdullahi Fasasi, Principal of the Islamic School, Bashorun, in Agodi Prison. The three are being held in connection with last Wednesday’s tragic stampede that claimed the lives of 35 minors.
The accused are facing a four-count charge, including conspiracy, acceleration of death, negligent acts causing harm, and failure to provide adequate security and medical facilities during the event.
The court ruled that the accused remain in custody until January 13, 2025, pending advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). Despite arguments from defense counsels to have their clients remain in police custody rather than prison, Magistrate Olabisi Ogunkanmi upheld the remand order.
Defense Counsel Appeals for Alternative Custody
Counsel to Oriyomi Hamzat, Mr. Ridwan Adekunle, informed the court of an earlier agreement with the Officer-in-Charge (OC) Legal that his client would remain in police custody rather than being transferred to prison. Similarly, counsel for Mr. Fasasi, Mr. Olajide, argued that his client should not have been arraigned in court, proposing police custody as a more suitable alternative.
However, Magistrate Ogunkanmi stated that the court’s decision to remand the accused was appropriate, pending the DPP’s legal advice.
Details of the Case and Earlier Arrests
The case, filed under charge number C/2024, was initiated by the Commissioner of Police. Out of seven suspects initially arrested, five were released, including Genesis Christopher (24), Tanimowo Moruf (52), Anisolaja Olabode (42), Idowu Ibrahim (35), and Abiola Oluwatimilehin (25).
Magistrate Ogunkanmi criticized the police for presenting the accused in court without adequately considering their health conditions and the broader circumstances surrounding the case.
Health Challenges and Public Reaction
Both Oriyomi Hamzat and Prophetess Naomi were reported to have experienced health complications following the incident. Oriyomi, who claimed to be in shock over the tragedy, had been hospitalised, while Queen Naomi reportedly collapsed while in police custody. Security operatives faced challenges controlling the crowd of supporters outside the court.
Governor Makinde Orders Investigation
Governor Seyi Makinde has promised a thorough investigation into the tragic event, assuring that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law.
The case has been adjourned to January 13, 2025, for mention, with the outcome of the DPP’s advice expected to determine whether the accused will stand trial.