The Oyo State Government has dropped all charges against Naomi Silekunola, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife; Oriyomi Hamzat, the founder of Agidigbo FM; and Abdullahi Fasasi, the principal of Islamic High School in Bashorun, Ibadan.
The individuals were initially charged in judicial procedures following the December 2024 funfair stampede, which claimed the lives of at least 35 children.
Following the court session on Thursday, the relieved defendants were seen exchanging pleasantries, indicating that the charges had been officially dropped.
Addressing journalists, Oyo State Attorney General Abiodun Aikomo outlined the decision’s reasons, highlighting the legal and humanitarian implications.
“It was an unfortunate incident that led to the death of many. And you see, in law, whenever death occurs and the circumstances are not natural, the law will take its course. So the state responded by filing charges against the persons implicated in the investigation,” Aikomo stated.
He further elucidated, “In the course of doing that, we actually wanted to prosecute, but the affected persons showed empathy.
“They showed compassion. And as far as human beings can do, they try to persuade the feelings of the affected parties. And the circumstance, we felt, is that the essence of prosecution is not to kill people or persecute them.
“It is in the interest of justice to discontinue these charges, and that is what happened today. So we withdrew the charge, and it was struck out by the court. There is no charge against them again, so they are free.”
