Justice K.B. Olawoyin of the Oyo State High Court, Ring Road, Ibadan, has set Tuesday, January 13, 2025, to deliver a ruling on the bail applications of former Queen of Ife, Naomi Silekunola, Agidigbo FM proprietor Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat, and Abdulahi Fasasi, Principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun.
The three are facing charges related to a tragic stampede that occurred during a Christmas funfair held at Islamic High School, Bashorun, in December 2024. The incident claimed the lives of at least 35 children, sparking widespread outrage.
The bail applications were argued on Tuesday in a court session that lasted over five hours. The defense teams presented their cases separately, with Queen Naomi represented by Musibau Adetunmbi (SAN), Hamzat by Adekunle Sobaloju (SAN), and Fasasi by Waheed Olajide.
During the hearing, the prosecution, led by Oyo State Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, opposed the bail applications, arguing that granting bail could jeopardize the case. The prosecution filed a counter-application, insisting that sufficient evidence exists to keep the suspects in custody.
Defense counsel countered these arguments, emphasizing the lack of substantial evidence to justify their clients’ continued detention. They urged the court to grant bail, citing their clients’ rights to freedom pending the determination of the case.
Justice Olawoyin adjourned the ruling on the bail applications to January 13, 2025. In the meantime, the accused remain in custody at the Nigerian Correctional Centre, Agodi.
The case has drawn significant public attention due to the high-profile nature of the defendants and the tragic circumstances surrounding the incident.
