The Oyo State High Court on Monday, January 13, granted bail to former Queen of Ife, Naomi Ogunwusi, in the sum of 10 million naira with two sureties. The court, presided over by Justice BK Olawoyin, also granted bail to two other defendants, Oriyomi Hamzat and Abdullahi Fasasi, in similar amounts and conditions.
The two sureties for each defendant must possess landed property in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State. Additionally, the court ordered that the defendants submit their international passports and be restricted from granting any media interviews until the conclusion of their trial.
The three defendants were arrested in connection with a tragic incident during a Christmas funfair in Ibadan in December 2024, which led to the deaths of 35 children. The tragic event has since sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice.
Oriyomi Hamzat, a prominent media personality and founder of Agidigbo FM, is one of the accused. Abdullahi Fasasi, a principal at the Islamic High School in Bashorun, Ibadan, is the second defendant. The trio was initially remanded in Agodi Correctional Facility following their arrest in December 2024 by the Chief Magistrate Court.
In proceedings on December 24, 2024, the defense counsels for the three bail applicants presented their arguments before the Oyo State High Court. Barrister Adekunle Shobaloju, representing Hamzat, argued that his client had no substantial connection to the alleged crimes. Shobaloju claimed that Hamzat’s role in the event was limited to providing publicity and a venue.
Counsel for Queen Naomi also raised concerns about the legal basis for her remand. They argued that the Chief Magistrate Court lacked the constitutional authority to remand their client, suggesting that the matter exceeded the jurisdiction of that court.
The Attorney General of Oyo State, Abiodun Aikomo, opposed the bail applications, requesting that the court deny the bail requests. Aikomo argued that granting bail to the accused would be inappropriate given the gravity of the charges they face.
The Oyo State Government has charged the three suspects with 18 counts related to conspiracy to commit a felony, murder, manslaughter, and criminal negligence. These charges, according to the government, are contrary to and punishable under section 324 of the Criminal Code, CAP 38, Vol II of the Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
The tragic Christmas funfair took place on December 24, 2024, and quickly became a national scandal after it was revealed that 35 children died in a stampede during the event. The authorities have since been investigating the causes of the incident, including allegations of poor planning and inadequate safety measures.
As the investigation continues, many families of the victims are calling for swift justice and accountability. The Oyo State Government has promised to fully investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
While the court’s decision to grant bail has been met with mixed reactions, the case remains under close scrutiny.
