Governor Seyi Makinde has emphasized that those responsible for the tragic stampede at the Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, which claimed the lives of at least 35 children, must face trial. The incident occurred during a charity program in Oyo State.

While the governor acknowledged that he had no objection to bail being granted to the suspects, he insisted that the case must proceed in court regardless of the status of those involved.

Makinde addressed the issue at the 2025 Annual Inter-faith Service for state workers, responding to concerns that similar incidents in Abuja and Anambra had not led to prosecutions. He firmly stated, “Even if nobody is held accountable elsewhere, in Oyo State, the rule of law will prevail.”

Reflecting on the challenges of the past year, Makinde said, “In 2024, we faced significant trials. The year began with a tragic explosion in Bodija on January 16, which impacted even my office and was felt across Ibadan. Towards the end of the year, we faced the devastating stampede at Islamic High School, Bashorun, where 35 innocent lives were lost. May we never experience such tragedy again in Oyo State.”

He added, “Many have approached me, saying similar incidents occurred in Anambra and the FCT without prosecutions. My response has been clear: Oyo State is not Anambra or Abuja. Justice will be served, no matter how highly placed those involved may be.”

The governor reiterated his commitment to upholding the law, stating, “The judiciary will handle this case. If bail is granted pending trial, I have no objection, but the trial must proceed. Oyo State will continue to uphold the rule of law, even if the rest of the country chooses otherwise.”

It is worth noting that the owner of Agidigbo FM, Oriyomi Hamzat, and the estranged queen of the Ooni of Ile-Ife, Naomi Silekunola, are among those remanded in custody for their alleged roles in the tragic incident, which sparked national outrage.