Ibadan stampede: Residents protest broadcaster’s detention

Hundreds of fans of Oriyomi Hamzat; CEO of Agidigbo FM, have staged a peaceful protest, calling on authorities to release the broadcaster, Prophetess Naomi Silekunola and Mr Abdullah Fasasi, who are currently in Agodi Custodial Centre, Ibadan.

Daily Trust reports that the protesters matched from different parts of Ibadan and converged at NTA, Agodi Ibadan and Olubadan Palace, expressing solidarity with Hamzat and others.

Daily Trust had reported that a stampede led to the death of over 35 children after a scheduled Christmas funfair became overcrowded and disorganised last week.

The Iyaganku Chief Magistrate’s Court had ordered the remand of the ex-wife of Oni of Ife, the principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun as well as the media partner of the event, Hamzat.

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Speaking at NTA, Apostle Peluola Akintayo, a fan of Hamzat, cried as he pleaded for his release and others.

“I appeal to the federal and state governments to release Oriyomi Hamzat and others in remand. He has always held the interest of the poor at heart. Please, please”, he said.

Another fan, an elderly woman named Mrs. Kareem Toyin, said she had come from Afijio LG to represent women traders.

She said; “This man is our helper. He is our lover. He always help those in need. We are all sad about the incident, which occurred on the 18th. They should please hear our pleas and have mercy on our helpers. He helps us market women financially. They should release the school principal and Princess Naomi too.”