The Oyo State Government has filed an 18-count charge, including manslaughter, against Naomi Silekunola, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife; Oriyomi Hamzat, CEO of Agidigbo FM; and Fasasi Abdullahi, Principal of Islamic High School.
These charges stem from the tragic stampede at a Christmas Funfair in Ibadan, which resulted in the deaths of 35 children.
According to an insider within the government, the charges were officially filed to address the incident’s devastating aftermath.
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“The court will most likely grant bail on Monday, but the state government has filed an 18-count charge of manslaughter and similar offences against the defendants,” the source disclosed.
EKO HOT BLOG reports that during a session at the Oyo State High Court on January 7, the defence team advocated vigorously for the defendants’ release on bail. They emphasized their cooperation with investigative authorities and their non-flight risk status.
Additionally, the defence raised constitutional concerns, questioning the validity of the “holding charge” under which the accused had been remanded. They argued that the measure lacks recognition under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act.
On the other hand, the prosecution, led by the Oyo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, opposed the bail applications. Aikomo maintained that the accused had failed to provide convincing reasons for their release and dismissed claims of political persecution.
“The gravity of the charges and the need for justice for the victims and their families necessitate the continued detention of the accused persons,” he argued.
After hearing both sides, Justice K.B. Olawoyin reserved judgment on the bail applications until Monday, January 13, 2025. The case focuses on three defendants: Naomi Silekunola, Oriyomi Hamzat, and Fasasi Abdullahi, who now await the court’s decision.
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