- Suspects want case withdrawn
The Chief Magistrate Court in Ibadan, Oyo State has adjourned the case involving the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, Naomi Silekunola following the stampede that claimed children’s lives in December 2024.
Silekunola, an Ibadan-based broadcaster and Chairman of a radio station, Oriyomi Hamzat, and the Principal of Islamic High School, Basorun, Abdulahib Fasasi face a four-count charge related to conspiracy, murder, manslaughter and negligence in connection with the deaths of 35 children.
The case was scheduled for mention on Monday but was adjourned until March 24, 2025, by the Chief Magistrate.
Addressing pressmen following the court session, Hamzat’s counsel, Dapo Akinosi said: “The matter today was actually slated for mention because when they were arraigned initially, it was on a holden charge, which is not recognised by our law. They were remanded in prison as a result of that charge.
“We subsequently applied to the High Court, where bail was granted to the defendants. Legal advice has now been issued, and the proper information has been filed against them. However, they are yet to be served with the information.
“Today, we came to court so that the charge here could be withdrawn. Since their plea has not yet been taken at the High Court, we requested a longer adjournment to allow proper proceedings, including plea-taking at the High Court, before the case can be concluded at the Magistrate Court.”