Oyo Government slaps 18-count manslaughter charge on Ooni’s ex-wife, others

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) in connection with the tragic stampede at a Christmas Funfair in Ibadan that claimed the lives of 35 children.

According to a government source, the charges stem from the deadly incident. “The court is expected to consider bail on Monday, but the state government has formally filed an 18-count charge of manslaughter and related offences against the defendants,” the source disclosed.

At the Oyo State High Court on January 7, the defendants’ legal team argued vigorously for bail, emphasizing their cooperation with investigations and asserting that they posed no flight risk. The lawyers also challenged the legality of the detention, labeling it a procedural irregularity.

They criticized the use of a “holding charge” to remand the defendants, asserting that it is not recognized under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA).

Leading the prosecution, Oyo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, opposed the bail applications. He argued that the defendants had not demonstrated sufficient grounds for their release and dismissed allegations of persecution by the state government as unfounded.

Aikomo emphasized the severity of the charges, stating, “The gravity of these offences and the need to ensure justice for the victims and their families demand the continued detention of the accused persons.”

After hearing submissions from both sides, Justice K.B. Olawoyin announced that a ruling on the bail applications would be delivered on Monday, January 13, 2025.

The case focuses on three defendants:

Naomi Silekunola: Former wife of the Ooni of Ife.
Oriyomi Hamzat: CEO of Agidigbo FM.
Fasasi Abdullahi: Principal of Islamic High School.

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