- Olori Naomi, Oriyomi Hamzat, and one other associate are embroiled in a high-stakes legal battle over the tragic Ibadan stampede that claimed multiple lives.
- The case, already surrounded by tension, has now hit a standstill, as the court refuses to proceed until the accused meet a crucial demand.
- With justice hanging in the balance, speculation grows over what this requirement could mean for the fate of the trio on trial.
The high-profile trial of Naomi Silekunola, former queen of the Ooni of Ife; Oriyomi Hamzat, owner of Ibadan-based Adigbo FM; and Abdullahi Fasasi, principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun has taken an interesting turn, as the court adjourned proceedings for two weeks, placing the fate of the accused in limbo.
The trio stands accused in an 18-count charge brought by the Oyo State Government over the devastating stampede that claimed at least 35 children’s lives during an end-of-year party hosted by Silekunola on December 18, 2024.
On Monday, March 10 2025, at the Oyo State High Court, Ring Road, Ibadan, Chief Justice Ladiran Akintola halted proceedings, ruling that the accused must first address the emotional and financial toll on the victims’ families before the case can proceed.
The unexpected adjournment followed a request from the defendants, who sought time to facilitate compensation for the bereaved families and those injured.
Oyo State Government spokesperson, Abiodun Aikomo, confirmed that while the trial was set to begin, the defense requested a delay to settle with victims’ families.
Representing Silekunola, senior lawyer Musibau Adetunmbi (SAN) argued that postponement was necessary for an amicable resolution, revealed that negotiations were already in motion and expressed confidence that compensation would be completed within the given timeframe.
The case traces back to December 2024, when a children’s funfair took a tragic turn, ending in a deadly stampede at the venue’s parking lot.
Naomi,Oriyiomi and Fasasi seen in court on February 18, 2025, now face the weight of the law as they battle murder, manslaughter, conspiracy to commit criminal negligence, and multiple related charges under the Criminal Code, CAP 38, Vol II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
With the trial now stalled for two weeks, all eyes remain on the court’s next move.
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