Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo state, says those involved in the stampede that claimed the lives of 35 children must face justice regardless of their social status.
The incident occurred at a funfair organised for children at Islamic High School in Bashorun area of Ibadan in December 2024.
A magistrate court in Ibadan has remanded the organisers in custody after they were charged by the police.
The police filed a four-count charge against them, including conspiracy, negligent acts causing harm, and failure to provide adequate security and medical facilities at the event.
Speaking on Monday, Makinde said the rule of law will prevail, despite calls for clemency, pointing out that similar incidents in Anambra and the FCT were not punished.
Makinde noted that while granting bail to suspects is permissible, the judicial process will ensure justice is served.
“In the outgone year, we faced challenges. 2024 started for us here in Oyo State almost on a tragic note,” Makinde said.
“On 16th January 2024, we had an explosion here in Bodija. It affected even my office. The impact was felt all around Ibadan. We’re closing it out.
“And then, towards the end of the year, we had the stampede at Islamic High School, Bashorun. 35 innocent souls were lost; may we not see such again in Oyo State.
“Quite a number of people have been reaching out to me, saying, ‘Oh, this incident happened in Anambra State. It also occurred in the FCT. Nobody went to jail. Why is it that in Oyo State, some people are going to jail?’
“I said, ‘Well, Oyo State is not Anambra State, and no matter how highly placed, justice must be done.
“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.”
