The Oyo State Government has dropped all charges against Naomi Silekunola, former wife of the Ooni of Ife, Oriyomi Hamzat, owner of Agidigbo FM, and Abdullahi Fasasi, principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan.
The trio had initially faced legal action following a tragic stampede at a children’s event in December 2024, which resulted in the deaths of at least 35 children.
Following a court session on Thursday, the defendants were seen visibly relieved as the charges were dismissed. “It was an unfortunate incident that led to the death of many… The essence of prosecution is not to kill people or persecute them. It is in the interest of justice to discontinue these charges,” Oyo State Attorney General, Abiodun Aikomo, explained.
The decision came after the involved parties expressed empathy and compassion, prompting the court to strike out the charges. “There is no charge against them again, so they are free,” Aikomo confirmed.