Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has asserted that all individuals associated with the devastating stampede at Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, which resulted in the tragic loss of 35 young lives, must be subjected to judicial proceedings, irrespective of their societal status or influence.
The governor articulated this position on Monday during the 2025 Annual Inter-faith Service for state employees convened in Ibadan.
In response to the ongoing public discourse regarding the detention of former Queen Naomi Silekunola, renowned broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat, and the Principal of the school, Abdullahi Fasasi, Makinde reiterated that Oyo State is committed to upholding the rule of law without any exceptions.
He revealed that numerous individuals have raised concerns about the impartiality of prosecuting the suspects, referencing analogous incidents in Anambra and Abuja where no one faced repercussions.
Responding to these concerns, Makinde stated firmly: “Even if nobody is held accountable elsewhere, in Oyo State, the rule of law will prevail. Justice must be done.”
The governor clarified that while he would not oppose the court’s decision to grant bail pending trial, it is essential for the suspects to stand trial to ensure accountability and justice for the victims and their families.
Makinde said: “People have approached me, saying this incident also occurred in other parts of the country, and no one went to jail. But Oyo State is not Anambra or Abuja. No matter how highly placed the individuals involved are, justice must be done. The judiciary is independent, and it is their responsibility to ensure this process is carried out. If bail is granted, so be it, but the trial must proceed.”
The governor further reiterated that Oyo State would set an example by ensuring that justice is not only done but seen to be done, declaring: “Even if this entire country decides not to follow the rule of law, in Oyo State, we will uphold it. We will dare to be different.”
