- Makinde clarified that he is not opposed to the court granting bail to the suspects, but the judicial process must take its course.
The Oyo state governor, Seyi Makinde, has insisted that individuals responsible for the Ibadan stampede, which claimed children’s lives, must face trial, regardless of social standing.
Recall that a stampede occurred at a funfair event in Ibadan, resulting in approximately 35 deaths, mostly children, in December 2023.
A magistrate court remanded the event organisers in custody after police charges, including conspiracy and negligent acts causing harm.
The police filed a four-count charge against the organisers, citing inadequate security and medical facilities.
A similar stampede incident occurred in Anambra and Abuja, resulting in over 30 deaths.
Makinde emphasised that Oyo State will uphold the rule of law, despite calls for leniency, noting that similar incidents elsewhere went unpunished.
The Oyo governor stressed that while bail is permissible, the judicial process must unfold, prioritizing accountability for delivering justice to victims.
“In the outgone year, we faced challenges,” Makinde said. “2024 started for us here in Oyo State almost on a tragic note.”
Makinde referenced an explosion in Bodija on January 16, 2024, which affected his office and had far-reaching impacts in Ibadan.
He also mentioned the stampede at Islamic High School, Bashorun, resulting in the loss of 35 innocent lives.
Makinde addressed concerns about differing treatment, saying, “Oyo State is not Anambra State, and no matter how highly placed, justice must be done.”
He emphasized the judiciary’s role, stating, “If you think you can grant a bail pending trial, I have nothing against it. But for the trial, the people must go on trial.”
Makinde reiterated his commitment to upholding the rule of law in Oyo State, even if the rest of the country fails to do so.
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