Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has pledged that all individuals linked to the tragic stampede at Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, which claimed the lives of 35 children, will be brought to justice.
The Governor made this commitment during the 2025 Annual Inter-faith Service for state workers, held on Monday.
Addressing calls for leniency, Governor Makinde firmly stated that the rule of law would prevail in Oyo State, regardless of the status of those involved. He emphasised that accountability was essential to honour the memory of the victims and provide justice for their grieving families.
The governor revealed that some had questioned why the state was pursuing justice when similar incidents in Anambra and the Federal Capital Territory did not lead to prosecutions. He dismissed such comparisons, reiterating that Oyo State would adhere strictly to the principles of law and justice.
Governor Makinde also stressed that while he respects the judicial process, including the possibility of bail, the accused must face trial.
“The judiciary is here; it’s in their court. If you think you can grant bail pending trial, I have nothing against it. But for the trial, the people must go on trial.
“So, people come to me, and I’ve been saying to them, ‘Oyo State, even if this entire country decides not to follow the rule of law, in Oyo State, we will follow; we will dare to be different. We will uphold the rule of law,’” he said.
The organisers of the ill-fated funfair, which occurred on December 18, 2024, remain in custody and include Prophetess Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, former wife of the Ooni of Ife; Oriyomi Hamzat, owner of Agidigbo FM; and Fasasi Abdullahi Babatunde, Principal of Islamic High School.
Reflecting on the tragic stampede, Makinde extended his condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for an end to such incidents in the state. He further assured the public of his administration’s commitment to good governance, justice, and security, highlighting ongoing efforts to tackle banditry and other forms of insecurity in Oyo State.
