Former wife of the Ooni of Ife, Naomi Silekunola; Oriyomi Hamzat, Chairman of an Ibadan-based broadcasting station; and Abdulahib Fasasi, Principal of Islamic High School, Basorun, appeared on Monday before the Chief Magistrate Court in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The trio face four charges, including conspiracy, murder, manslaughter, and negligence, linked to the deaths of 35 children during a stampede at a Christmas funfair held on December 18, 2024.

Previously arraigned on a holden charge, the defendants were granted bail after their counsel successfully argued that the holden charge is not recognized under Nigerian law.

At Monday’s session, the court adjourned the case until March 24, 2025.

Speaking to journalists, Hamzat’s counsel, Dapo Akinosi, clarified the situation:

“Today’s court appearance was for mention only. Initially, they were arraigned on a holden charge, which is legally invalid. They were remanded in prison due to that charge. Following our application to the High Court, bail was granted to the defendants. Legal advice has since been issued, and proper charges have been filed against them, though they have yet to be served.”

He added, “We requested a longer adjournment to allow the case to proceed at the High Court, where the defendants’ plea will be taken. Once this process is complete, the matter at the Magistrate Court can be concluded.”

The Christmas funfair tragedy has drawn widespread attention, with legal proceedings closely monitored by the public and stakeholders.