Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has vowed to prosecute those responsible for the tragic stampede at a children’s funfair held at Islamic High School, Ibadan, on December 18, 2024, which claimed the lives of 35 children.
Speaking during the annual inter faith prayer at the Governor’s Office Secretariat in Ibadan, Makinde reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring justice for the victims and their families, stating that no one, regardless of status, would be exempted from accountability.
The organizers of the event, including Prophetess Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife; Oriyomi Hamzat, owner of Agidigbo FM; and Fasasi Abdullahi Babatunde, Principal of Islamic High School, are currently detained at Agodi Custodial Centre.
Governor Makinde dismissed comparisons to similar tragedies in other states, asserting, “Oyo is not Anambra, and no matter how highly placed, justice must be done. Even if the entire country decides not to follow the rule of law, Oyo State will dare to be different.” He said
He emphasized that the judiciary would handle the trial, adding that while bail may be granted, the accused must face trial to ensure justice is served.
The governor expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for an end to such tragedies in the state.