Oyo Court Dismisses Case Against Queen Naomi, Broadcaster Hamzat, and Others Over December 2024 Stampede

An Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan has dismissed the case against Queen Naomi Silekunolami, popular Ibadan-based broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat, and the principal of Islamic High School, Orita Bashorun, Ibadan, Abdullahi Fasasi, concerning the tragic December 2024 stampede that led to the death of 35 children.

On Thursday, Justice B.K. Olawoyin of Court 8, Ring Road, Ibadan, struck out the charges, stating that a ruling in favor of the plaintiffs would discourage individuals with humanitarian intentions from supporting vulnerable members of society.

The defendants had been facing a four-count charge that included conspiracy, causing death through negligence, negligent acts causing harm, and failure to provide adequate security and medical facilities during the tragic event, which occurred during the Christmas Funfair on December 18, 2024, in Ibadan.

Speaking to reporters after the ruling, broadcaster Hamzat expressed gratitude to the court for its decision. He also emphasized that the incident would not deter him from continuing his humanitarian work, but instead would motivate him to expand his efforts.

However, Hamzat added that he would no longer collaborate with any organization to organize similar events in the future. He highlighted that previous events he personally organized had never resulted in deaths or such a tragic outcome.

Further details will be provided later.