An Ibadan High Court has rejected the bail applications of Naomi Silekunola, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, and Abdullahi Fasasi, the principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun.
The bail denial follows the December 2024 stampede during a children’s festive event organized by Naomi at the school, which resulted in the deaths of over 35 children.
According to court insiders, the Attorney General requested additional time to carry out further investigations into the case, prompting the court’s decision to withhold bail.
“The court declined the bail request for Naomi and the school principal because the Attorney General sought more time for the state to continue its investigations,” Sahara Reporters quoted as saying.
While Naomi’s case has been adjourned until next week, the court is still deliberating the bail application of Oriyomi Hamzat, the owner of Agidigbo FM.
Meanwhile, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has reiterated his commitment to ensuring that all those involved in the incident are held accountable. He noted, however, that he is not opposed to bail for the accused as long as legal procedures are observed.
The tragedy has sparked widespread calls for justice and accountability from the public.
