Justice K.B. Olawoyin of Court 8, Oyo State High Court, Ring Road, Ibadan, has set Tuesday, January 13, 2025, to rule on the bail applications filed by Naomi Silekunola, former queen of the Ooni of Ife; Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat, founder of Agidigbo FM; and Abdulahi Fasasi, Principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan.
The trio is facing trial over a tragic stampede during a Christmas funfair held at Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, in December 2024, which resulted in the deaths of at least 35 children.
The bail hearing, conducted on Tuesday, saw legal representatives for the defendants present their arguments. Waheed Olajide represented Fasasi, Musibau Adetunmbi (SAN) appeared for ex-queen Naomi, and Adekunle Sobaloju (SAN) stood for Hamzat. Proceedings lasted over five hours as each counsel argued separately in defense of their clients.
The state, led by the Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Mr. Abiodun Aikomo, opposed the bail applications, filing a counter-motion. Aikomo was joined by senior officials from the Ministry of Justice.
In their submissions, defense counsel contended that there was insufficient evidence to justify their clients’ continued detention. They urged the court to grant bail, citing their clients’ right to freedom.
Justice Olawoyin, after hearing arguments from both sides, adjourned the case for a ruling on the bail applications. In the meantime, the defendants remain in custody at the Nigerian Correctional Centre, Agodi, Ibadan.