The trial of Naomi Silekunola, former queen of the Ooni of Ife; Oriyomi Hamzat, proprietor of Ibadan-based Adigbo FM; and Abdullahi Fasasi, principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, has been adjourned for two weeks to allow for the compensation of victims of the funfair tragedy.
The three are facing an 18-count charge brought against them by the Oyo state government over a tragic stampede that led to the deaths of at least 35 children at an end-of-year party hosted by Silekunola on December 18, 2024.
The case, which was heard at the Oyo State High Court, Ring Road, Ibadan, on Monday, was postponed by Chief Justice Ladiran Akintola to allow the defendants to pay their respects to the families of the deceased children.
Oyo State Government spokesperson, Abiodun Aikomo, confirmed that while the trial was initially scheduled to begin on Monday, those involved requested time to compensate the families of the victims, as well as those injured in the incident.
“The government will wait for two weeks. If the accused fail to provide compensation within that time, the trial will continue,” Aikomo stated.
Speaking on behalf of Silekunola, senior lawyer Musibau Adetunmbi (SAN) said the request for an adjournment was necessary to explore an amicable resolution.
“The incident was tragic, and every time it is brought up, it reopens wounds for the grieving families. That is why we are seeking a peaceful resolution,” he said.
Adetunmbi added that efforts were already underway and expressed confidence that the matter could be settled within the court’s two-week deadline.
The case dates back to December 2024, when a funfair organised for children turned deadly due to a stampede at the venue’s parking lot. The suspects last appeared in court on February 18, 2025.
Silekunola, Hamzat and Fasasi are facing charges of murder, manslaughter, conspiracy to commit criminal negligence, and other related offenses under the Criminal Code, CAP 38, Vol II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
The trial is expected to resume after the two-week adjournment.
