The Oyo State High Court in Ibadan has rejected the bail applications of Naomi Silekunola, the estranged wife of the Ooni of Ife, and Abdullahi Fasasi, the Principal of Islamic High School in Bashorun, Ibadan.
The court’s decision was influenced by the Attorney General’s request for more time to investigate the case.
The defendants were arrested in connection with a tragic children’s festive party in December 2024, which resulted in the deaths of at least 35 children due to a stampede at the Islamic High School.
The court, presided over by Justice Olawoyin, commenced hearing the bail applications amid tight security.
Naomi’s case has been adjourned until next week, while the court is still considering the bail application of Oriyomi Hamzat, the proprietor of Agidigbo FM radio station. Hamzat, Naomi, and Fasasi are facing charges related to the stampede.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has emphasized that those involved in the stampede must face trial, although he has also stated that he is not opposed to the suspects being granted bail.
The case has sparked comparisons to similar incidents in Abuja and Anambra, which did not result in prosecutions.
