Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, erupted in carnival-like jubilation on Tuesday as Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat, CEO of popular Agidigbo FM, was released from prison custody. Hamzat, alongside the former Queen of Ooni of Ife, Naomi Silekunola, and the principal of Islamic High School Basorun, Abdullahi Fasasi, were granted bail by Justice K.B Olawoyin of Court 8.
The trio met the bail conditions on Tuesday, leading to their release from prison. Hamzat was welcomed by a large crowd of mostly women, who had gathered at the prison entrance with placards showing solidarity with the broadcaster. The crowd sang victory songs as they escorted Hamzat’s vehicle through the streets, with their destination unknown.
The defendants were arrested by the police on December 24 and had been in prison custody since then. They face eight counts bordering on murder and manslaughter, filed by the Oyo State Government, over the December 18, 2024, funfair stampede that resulted in the deaths of 35 children.
Justice Olawoyin granted bail to the defendants following a bail application filed by their counsel on Monday. The bail conditions included a N10 million bond, two sureties with landed documents within the court’s jurisdiction, and the deposit of their international passports with the court. Additionally, the defendants are barred from granting interviews during the pendency of the case.
Hamzat’s release was met with widespread celebration, with many hailing the development as a victory for justice. The case has generated significant public interest, with many calling for a fair trial.
As the case continues, the public will be watching closely to see how the trial unfolds. For now, Hamzat and his co-defendants are free on bail, awaiting the next stage of the trial.
