Kehinde Fajobi
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has pledged that those responsible for the tragic stampede at Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, which claimed the lives of 35 children, will face trial.
Speaking at the 2025 Annual Inter-faith Service for state workers on Tuesday in Ibadan, Makinde stressed his administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law.
Addressing calls for justice, he said, “Even if nobody is held accountable elsewhere, in Oyo State, the rule of law will prevail.”
The governor clarified that while he has no objection to the courts granting bail to suspects, the legal process must run its course.
“If you think you can grant bail pending trial, I have nothing against it. But the people must go on trial,” he said.
Reflecting on challenges in the past year, Makinde noted, “2024 started for us here in Oyo State almost on a tragic note. On January 16, we experienced an explosion in Bodija that impacted my office and resonated throughout Ibadan.
“Then, towards the end of the year, we faced the stampede at Islamic High School, Bashorun, which claimed 35 innocent lives. May we never witness such tragedy again in Oyo State.”
In response to comparisons with similar incidents in Anambra and the Federal Capital Territory, he declared, “Oyo State is not Anambra State, and no matter how highly placed, justice must be done.”
Makinde also addressed security concerns, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat banditry and other threats posed by criminals relocating to the state.
He assured residents that his government would intensify operations to safeguard lives and property, adding, “2024 has been challenging in terms of safety and security, with incidents of fire, armed robbery, and kidnappings. We will redouble our efforts in 2025 to tackle these issues.”
The governor encouraged citizens to report suspicious activities, saying, “It is in our collective interest.”
On workers’ welfare, Makinde announced plans to review pension remuneration in line with the new minimum wage and consequential adjustments.
State Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, commended the governor for his commitment to workers and urged employees to remain diligent.
Other speakers, including the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin, and labour union representatives, lauded the administration for its positive initiatives and urged continued progress.