Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde has reaffirmed that those responsible for the tragic stampede during the December Christmas funfair at Islamic High School at Basorun in Ibadan, if found culpable will face trial regardless of their status.
It will be recalled that the fatal incident was reported to have claimed the lives of over 35 minors with a lot of women and other children injured, still receiving treatment at various hospitals across the city of Ibadan.
Governor Makinde made the assertion on Sunday during his address at the 2025 Annual Inter-faith Service for state workers, held at the state secretariat while emphasising that the rule of law must be upheld in the state.
In addressing concerns raised by some individuals regarding similar incidents in Anambra and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) that did not lead to prosecutions, he firmly stated, “Even if nobody is held accountable elsewhere, in Oyo State, the rule of law will prevail.”
He clarified that while he is not opposed to the court granting bail to the suspects, the judicial process must take its course, stressing that accountability is essential for delivering justice to the victims and their families.
Reflecting on the challenges faced in the past year, Makinde noted, “2024 started for us here in Oyo State almost on a tragic note. On January 16, 2024, we experienced an explosion in Bodija that impacted my office and resonated throughout Ibadan.”
“Then, towards the end of the year, we faced the stampede at Islamic High School, Bashorun, which claimed 35 innocent lives. May we never witness such tragedy again in Oyo State.”
He addressed those questioning why Oyo State would pursue justice when other states had not, asserting, “Oyo State is not Anambra State, and no matter how highly placed, justice must be done.”
He reiterated that the judiciary will handle the matter, stating, “If you think you can grant bail pending trial, I have nothing against it. But the people must go on trial.”
