Oriyomi Hamzat, owner of the Ibadan-based Agidigbo FM, has successfully met his bail conditions and been released from Agodi Correctional Centre in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The broadcaster was freed alongside his co-defendants, including Naomi Silekunola, former queen of the Ooni of Ife, and Abdulahi Fasasi, the principal of Islamic High School in Bashorun.
They were all detained in connection with the tragic Ibadan stampede in December 2024 that led to the deaths of 35 children.
On Monday, Justice K. B. Olawoyin granted bail to the accused, setting a bond of ₦10 million each, with two sureties in the same amount.
Hamzat, upon his release on Tuesday, was greeted by a large crowd at his station, visibly emotional as he addressed his supporters.
“Oriyomi is back. At this time, I am in a moment of silence. Thank you very much,” he said, fighting back tears.
The Oyo State Government filed an 18-count charge against Hamzat, Silekunola, and Fasasi on January 10, 2025, for their roles in the stampede.
The case, filed at the State High Court under charge number I/05C/2025, accuses them of conspiracy to commit murder, manslaughter, criminal negligence, and related offenses.
The charge sheet claims the accused failed to provide necessary crowd control, security, and medical facilities during the event at Islamic High School, which ultimately caused the stampede that killed 35 children, including 8-year-old Musiliu Sofiat.
According to the prosecution, their neglect violated Section 517 of the Criminal Code, CAP 38, Vol II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000, leading to the tragic deaths.
