Oyo State Government Files Charges Against Ex-Queen Naomi Silekunola and Others Over Tragic Funfair Stampede
The Oyo State Government has officially filed eight charges, including murder and manslaughter, against Naomi Silekunola, the ex-queen of the Ooni of Ife; Oriyomi Hamzat, an Ibadan-based radio station proprietor; and Abdulahi Fasasi, the Principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan.
The charges are related to the December 18, 2024, stampede during a children’s funfair, which tragically claimed the lives of 35 children.
Details of the Case
The charge sheet, marked I/05C/2025, was filed on Friday, January 10, 2025, at the Oyo State High Court in Ibadan. The Oyo State Government is listed as the complainant, with Silekunola, Hamzat, and Fasasi as defendants.
The charges include:
Conspiracy to commit murder and manslaughter
Criminal negligence
The offenses are in violation of Section 324 of the Criminal Code, CAP 38, Vol II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
Tragic Loss of Lives
The prosecution revealed that the stampede resulted in the deaths of 35 children, including 14 whose identities were disclosed. Among the victims were Musiliu Sofiat (8 years), Lekan Salami (7 years), Feyikemi Salam (1.5 years), and Olaniyan Joshua (1.5 years).
The government accused the defendants of failing to ensure adequate security, crowd control, and medical facilities at the event, thereby negligently causing the deaths.
Specific Charges Against the Defendants
Fasasi faces a four-count charge, including:
Conspiracy to commit a felony
Negligent acts causing harm
Failure to provide essential safety measures
The alleged negligence directly violated Section 308 and is punishable under Section 344 of the Criminal Code, CAP 38, Vol II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
Government’s Stand
Governor Seyi Makinde has reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring justice for the victims. Speaking last week, he vowed to hold all parties accountable, describing the incident as a preventable tragedy.
The defendants, who were arrested on December 24, 2024, remain in custody as they await trial.
What’s Next?
This case highlights the importance of safety and accountability in public events. As the trial unfolds, the state will aim to ensure that those responsible for the tragedy are brought to justice.
