In a dramatic turn of events, the Oyo State Government has dropped all charges against Naomi Silekunola, the ex-queen of the Ooni of Ife, and two others implicated in the tragic stampede that occurred at a children’s event in Ibadan in December 2024. The decision, which was announced in court on Thursday, brings an end to the highly publicized case that had sparked widespread outrage and debate.
The Ibadan funfair tragedy, which occurred on December 29, 2024, resulted in the deaths of at least 35 children and injured many others. The incident sparked widespread outrage and condemnation, with many calling for those responsible to be held accountable. Following an investigation, the Oyo State Government filed charges against Naomi Silekunola, Oriyomi Hamzat, the owner of Agidigbo FM, and Abdullahi Fasasi, the principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan.
The three defendants were charged with manslaughter, negligence, and conspiracy. The charges alleged that they had failed to take adequate safety measures to prevent the stampede, which resulted in the deaths of the children. The defendants had pleaded not guilty to the charges and were granted bail.
In a surprise move, the Oyo State Attorney General, Abiodun Aikomo, announced in court on Thursday that the state government had decided to drop all charges against the defendants. According to Aikomo, the decision was taken after the defendants showed empathy and compassion to the families of the victims. Aikomo stated that the essence of prosecution is not to persecute but to ensure justice, and that the state government felt that it was in the interest of justice to discontinue the charges.
The decision to drop charges has sparked mixed reactions. While some have welcomed the move, others have expressed disappointment and outrage. The families of the victims have expressed sadness and disappointment, stating that they had been hoping for justice. However, others have praised the state government for taking a compassionate approach.