The legal drama surrounding the tragic stampede at an event in Ibadan took a significant turn today as the state High Court adjourned ruling on bail application filed by the counsels of ex wife of Ooni, Naomi Shilekunola Ogunseyi, popular radio broadcaster, Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat, and the school principal, Abdullai Fasasi.
The accused were arraigned last year by a magistrate court sitting in Iyaganku on a four-count charge of conspiracy, acceleration of death, negligent acts causing harm, and failure to provide adequate security and medical facilities.
Oyo State legal counsel led by the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, opposed the bail application filed on behalf of the defendants.
The case, which has drawn intense public attention, concerns the tragic loss of 35 lives and injuries sustained during the overcrowded funfair event, held in Ibadan late 2024.
The defendants, organizers of the event, stand accused of negligence and endangering public safety, leading to a stampede that claimed the lives of at least 35 persons and left others injured.
During today’s hearing at the Oyo State High Court, the defense team urged the court to grant bail, arguing that the accused pose no flight risk and are committed to cooperating with investigations.
However, the Oyo State legal counsel, led by Barrister Abiodun Aikomo, strongly opposed the motion, citing the gravity of the charges and the need to ensure justice for the victims and their families.
The presiding judge, Justice Kamarudeen Olawoyin, acknowledged the high stakes of the case and the public interest it has generated.
After hearing arguments from both sides, Justice Olawoyin adjourned the ruling on the bail application until next week Monday, January 13, leaving the defendants’ fate hanging in the balance.
It would be recalled that governor Seyi Makinde had insisted that Justice must prevail on the matter involving the trio.
Speaking yesterday at the annual interfaith program to usher in resumption of work at the state government Secretariat, Governor Makinde, reiterated his commitment to upholding the rule of law and abstaining from interfering on the case.