Queen Naomi Silekunola, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, and popular broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat are facing murder charges in connection with the deadly stampede that occurred during a Christmas party in Ibadan.
The incident, which claimed the lives of 35 children, has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation.
According to the prosecution, the defendants failed to provide adequate security and medical facilities at the event, which led to the death of eight-year-old Sofiat Musiliu and 34 others.
The charges against Queen Naomi and Oriyomi Hamzat include conspiracy, murder, and negligent acts causing harm.
The Iyaganku Chief Magistrates’ Court ordered the detention of Queen Naomi, Oriyomi Hamzat, and school principal Fasasi Abdullahi at Agodi Correctional Centre pending legal advice from the state Directorate of Public Prosecution.
The court hearing was attended by the defendants’ lawyers, J. A. Lukman, Ridwan Adekunle, and Waheed Olajide.
Police Inspector Sikiru Opaleye told the court that the defendants face four counts of conspiracy, murder, and negligent acts causing harm.
The charges violate Sections 324, 311, 517, and 344 of the Criminal Code, Cap 38, Vol. II, Laws of Oyo State of Nigeria, 2000.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, December 18, between 5 a.m. and 8 a.m. at the Islamic High School, Bashorun, where a children’s Christmas party was being organized by WINGS Foundation, a non-profit organization founded by Queen Naomi.
The Oyo State Police Command reported that six others were critically injured during the stampede.
The case has been transferred to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department in Iyaganku, with investigation led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police.
The defendants are expected to return to court on January 13 for mention.
