“My Daughter is Innocent” – Prophetess Naomi’s Mother Pleads After Daughter’s Remand in Agodi Prison

The mother of Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, former Queen of the Ooni of Ife, has made an emotional appeal to Nigerians, seeking support after her daughter was remanded in Agodi prison. Naomi, alongside Agidigbo FM owner Hamzat Oriyomi and Islamic School Principal Abdullahi Fasasi, faces charges linked to the tragic stampede that claimed the lives of 35 children last week.

In a heartfelt video, Naomi’s mother, visibly distraught, tearfully insisted on her daughter’s innocence. “She is innocent! My daughter has been organizing this program for over 10 years to help children. Please, don’t let them destroy her life. Help me, help Naomi,” she pleaded.

The accused were arraigned on charges of conspiracy, negligent acts causing harm, failure to provide adequate security and medical facilities, and acceleration of death. Magistrate Olabisi Ogunkanmi ordered their remand in prison custody until January 13, pending advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). Efforts by the defense counsel to secure their release to police custody were unsuccessful.

Counsel to Oriyomi Hamzat, Mr. Ridwan Adekunle, argued that there had been an agreement with the Officer-in-Charge (OC) Legal for his client to remain in police custody. Similarly, Mr. Olajide, counsel to the school principal, urged the court not to remand his client in prison. Despite these arguments, the court maintained its ruling.

The case, instituted by the Commissioner of Police and marked C/2024, originally involved seven suspects, though five were later released. Both Oriyomi and Naomi were hospitalized following the incident, with Oriyomi reportedly in shock and Naomi collapsing in police custody.

Governor Seyi Makinde has assured the public of a thorough investigation, emphasizing that anyone found culpable will face justice.