The Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, has insisted that those involved in the stampede at the Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, which claimed the lives of at least 35 children, must face trial.

The stampede had occurred at a charity programme organised in Oyo State.

This is even as the governor noted that he wasn’t against the suspects being granted bail in the case.

He noted that the case must be heard regardless of the status of those involved.

His comments came as he noted that some persons had argued that similar incidents in Abuja and Anambra did not lead to prosecutions wondering why Oyo State was different.

Makinde shared his thoughts at the 2025 Annual Inter-faith Service for state workers. He addressed calls for leniency, stating that the rule of law would be upheld in Oyo State.

The governor stated that while there may be no prosecutions elsewhere, the case will be different in Oyo State.

The governor responded firmly, stating, “Even if nobody is held accountable elsewhere, in Oyo State, the rule of law will prevail.”

Makinde said, “In the outgone year, we faced challenges. 2024 started for us here in Oyo State almost on a tragic note. On 16th January 2024, we had an explosion here in Bodija. It affected even my office. The impact was felt all around Ibadan. We’re closing it out.

“And then, towards the end of the year, we had the stampede at Islamic High School, Bashorun. 35 innocent souls were lost; may we not see such again in Oyo State.

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

“The judiciary is here; it’s in their court. If you think you can grant bail pending trial, I have nothing against it. But for the trial, the people must go on trial.

“So, people come to me, and I’ve been saying to them, ‘Oyo State, 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. We will uphold the rule of law.’”

It would be recalled that owner of Agidigbo FM, Oriyomi Hamzat, the estranged queen Of the Ooni of Ile-Ife, Naomi Silekunola, have been remanded in custody over their roles in the stampede that killed many and which led to an uproar across the country.

National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu; a Nigerian-born British politician and leader of the UK Conservative Party, Kemi Badenoch; and Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), have been recognised among the 100 Most Reputable Africans for 2025, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported.

The list which was released on Sunday, by Reputation Poll International (RPI), in partnership with the Global Reputation Forum, had the names of other notable Nigerians and African leaders.

The list featured men and women from diverse sectors across the continent that had excelled in technology, creative industries, sports, public service, academia and environmental advocacy.

Ribadu’s nomination stemmed from his leadership of the nation’s security apparatus leading to enhanced synergy between the military, other security and intelligence agencies in the country.

He has recently coordinated a series of successful rescues of kidnapped victims in the northern part of the country.

“This is a celebration of African excellence and a call to recognise those shaping the future of the continent with their unwavering commitment to progress and innovation.

“Honourees were chosen for their significant local and global influence as well as their ability to create meaningful change.

“The 2025 honourees were selected through a rigorous methodology based on integrity, ethical leadership and commitment to societal well-being.

“They were also selected through the impact of contributions to transformative projects and initiatives as well as the recognition and influence within their respective fields,” the organisers said on the website.

The ‘roll of honour’ released on the organisations website also had the names of Dr Paul Enenche, the founder, Dunamis International Gospel Church; Mr Cosmos Maduka, Chairman of Coscharis Motors; and Senator Gbemisola Saraki.

While Enenche and Adeboye have appeared on the list in the past, Dr Daniel Olukoya, founder of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries is appearing for the first time.

Others are Bala Wunti, the Group General Manager of National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS), Mr Tony Elumelu, Chairman, United Bank for Africa (UBA), as well as songwriter and worship singer, Osinachi Egbu, popularly known as “Sinach”.

Also on the list is Olukemi Badenoch, a Nigerian-born British politician, who is serving as the leader of the opposition and leader of the Conservative Party since November 2024.

The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK), has expressed deep sorrow over a tragic fire incident in Agbor, Delta State, which claimed five lives, including that of a young lady, and left several others injured. The inferno also caused extensive damage to residential and commercial properties.

The disaster occurred when a petrol tanker suffered brake failure, leading to a devastating fire that swept through the community.

In a solidarity message, the Minister extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and all those affected by the tragedy.

“For the families and individuals who have lost so much, we stand with you during this incredibly challenging time. Our hearts go out to you, and the Federal Government is committed to providing the necessary resources and support to help you rebuild and recover,” he said.

Keyamo also praised the bravery of first responders, firefighters, and emergency personnel, whose swift actions helped contain the fire and save lives.

“We are deeply grateful for the dedication and courage of our emergency teams. Their efforts significantly mitigated the impact of this tragic event,” he added.

The Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting the affected community in its recovery and rebuilding efforts.

Tunde Moshood

Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development