Makinde insists on justice for children killed in Ibadan stampede

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has vowed that those responsible for the stampede that claimed the lives of 35 children in Ibadan must face justice, regardless of their social standing.

The tragic incident occurred in December 2024 during a funfair at the Islamic High School in the Bashorun area of Ibadan. Following the incident, the police filed a four-count charge against the event organisers, including conspiracy, negligence leading to harm, and failure to provide adequate security and medical facilities. A magistrate court in Ibadan has since remanded the accused in custody.

Speaking on Monday, Makinde reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, despite calls for clemency. He also criticized the lack of accountability in similar tragedies in other parts of the country.

“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?’” Makinde said.

“I said, ‘Well, Oyo State is not Anambra State, and no matter how highly placed, justice must be done.’”

The governor emphasized that while suspects may be granted bail, they must still face trial.

“If you think you can grant bail pending trial, I have nothing against it. But for the trial, the people must go on trial,” he said.

Makinde also reflected on the challenges faced by Oyo State in 2024, referencing a January explosion in Bodija and the year-end stampede.

“On 16th January 2024, we had an explosion here in Bodija. It affected even my office. The impact was felt all around Ibadan. And then, towards the end of the year, we had the stampede at Islamic High School, Bashorun. Thirty-five innocent souls were lost; may we not see such again in Oyo State,” he said.

Makinde assured citizens that his administration remains committed to ensuring justice and upholding the rule of law, setting Oyo State apart as a bastion of accountability.

“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,” he added.

The case is now in the judiciary’s hands, and the trial is expected to proceed in the coming weeks.