An Iyaganku Chief Magistrates’ Court in Ibadan on Tuesday ordered the remand of three individuals, including a former queen and a broadcaster, over their alleged roles in the funfair tragedy that claimed 35 lives last Wednesday.
Chief Magistrate Olabisi Ogunkanmi, citing lack of jurisdiction, declined to take the defendants’ plea and directed their remand at the Agodi Correctional Centre in Ibadan. She stated that the defendants would remain in custody pending legal advice from the Oyo State Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP). The case was adjourned to January 13 for mention.
The accused include 31-year-old former queen Naomi Ogunwusi, 51-year-old broadcaster Oriyomi Hazmat, and 56-year-old school principal Fasasi Abdullahi. They are facing a four-count charge of conspiracy, murder, and negligence leading to harm.
However the prosecuting counsel, Inspector Sikiru Opaleye, informed the court that the defendants had organized a funfair for children without ensuring a safe and secure environment or providing adequate medical facilities. He alleged that their negligence led to a stampede, resulting in the deaths of 35 individuals, including an eight-year-old girl, Sofiat Musiliu, and others aged between five months and 13 years.
READ ALSO:
House of Reps urges Dangote, NMDPRA, others to cease their public disputes in media
Coordinating Minister of Health Unveils NEMTC, Signs MoU with NPHCDA, NMEP to Enhance Healthcare for Nigerians
FG, Stakeholders to Develop Actionable Policies to Caution Effects of climate change, Pollutions Control Across Nigeria
The tragic incident reportedly occurred on Wednesday between 5 a.m. and 8 a.m. at Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan. According to Opaleye, the charges against the defendants are in violation of Sections 324, 311, 517, and 344 of the Criminal Code, Cap 38, Vol. II, Laws of Oyo State of Nigeria, 2000.
The defendants were represented by their respective counsel: J. A. Lukman for the first defendant, Ridwan Adekunle for the second, and Waheed Olajide for the third.
The tragic event has drawn widespread attention, with calls for accountability and better safety measures in public gatherings.
