The Oyo State Government has officially withdrawn criminal charges against Prophetess Naomi Ogunwusi, ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife; popular broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat; and a school principal over their alleged involvement in the tragic stampede at an Ibadan school.
The incident, which occurred at a charity event organized to provide food and relief materials to students and parents, led to multiple injuries and fatalities. In the aftermath, authorities filed criminal charges against key figures linked to the event.
The charges were filed after the government alleged that the organizers of the event, including Naomi and Oriyomi, failed to provide adequate security and medical facilities, leading to the tragic incident.
The defendants were visibly elated, smiling and exchanging pleasantries after the trial on Thursday, signalling their relief and release from the charges.
The decision was confirmed by State Attorney General Abiodun Aikomo, who stated that the affected persons showed empathy and compassion, and that the essence of prosecution is not to persecute but to serve justice.
Speaking to newsmen the Attorney General said: “It was an unfortunate incident that led to the death of many. And you see, in law, whenever death occurs and the circumstances are not natural, the law will take its course. So the state responded by filing charges against the persons implicated in the investigation.
“In the course of doing that, we actually wanted to prosecute but the affected persons showed empathy. They showed compassion. And as far as human beings can do, they try to persuade the feelings of the affected parties.
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