Ibadan Stampede: Governor Makinde Insists Ex-Ooni’s Wife, Hamzat, Others Must Face Trial
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has vowed that all those responsible for the tragic stampede that claimed the lives of 35 minors during a funfair at Islamic High School, Basorun, Ibadan, on December 18, 2024, will face trial.
Speaking during the annual interfaith service to mark the beginning of 2025 at the Governor’s Office Secretariat in Ibadan, Makinde reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring justice for the victims and preventing similar tragedies in the future.
Eight individuals were arrested in connection with the tragic incident. Among those remanded in prison custody at the Agodi Custodial Centre are former wife of the Ooni of Ife, Naomi Ogunwusi, the owner of Agidigbo FM, Oriyomi Hamzat, and the Basorun High School principal, Fasasi Abdullahi Babatunde. The court adjourned their case until later this month.
Makinde addressed public criticism regarding the prosecution, revealing he had received numerous calls urging leniency. However, he firmly dismissed the appeals, emphasizing that justice must be served regardless of the individuals involved.
“Thirty-five innocent lives were lost; such a tragedy must never happen again in Oyo State by God’s grace,” he said. “Some people told me this happened in Anambra and FCT, and no one went to jail. But Oyo State is not Anambra, and justice must prevail, regardless of anyone’s status.”
The governor stressed that the judiciary would ensure due process. “If they think bail can be granted pending trial, that’s within the court’s jurisdiction, but a trial must happen. Even if the rest of the country disregards the rule of law, Oyo State will stand firm and uphold it,” he added.
The tragic stampede has sparked widespread concern, with the victims’ families and rights groups demanding accountability. Governor Makinde’s stance underscores his administration’s determination to prioritize justice and public safety.
