“No Matter How Highly Placed, Justice Must Be Done” – Makinde on Ibadan Stampede

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that suspects involved in the tragic stampede at Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, face trial. The incident, which occurred late last year, claimed the lives of 35 children, prompting widespread calls for accountability.

Speaking at the 2025 Annual Inter-faith Service for state workers, Makinde dismissed appeals for leniency and reiterated that the rule of law must prevail in Oyo State. He responded to comparisons with similar incidents in Anambra and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), where no prosecutions followed, asserting that Oyo State would chart its own course by prioritizing justice. “Oyo State is not Anambra State,” he said firmly. “Even if nobody is held accountable elsewhere, in Oyo State, the rule of law will prevail.”

The governor emphasized that while he is not opposed to the court granting bail to the suspects, the judicial process must run its full course. Accountability, he said, is crucial for delivering justice to the victims and their families.

Reflecting on the challenges of the past year, Makinde recalled incidents that tested the state’s resilience, including a January 2024 explosion in Bodija and the devastating stampede in Bashorun. He expressed condolences for the lives lost, vowing that such tragedies would not be allowed to recur.

Makinde also addressed the growing threat of banditry, revealing that criminals from northwestern Nigeria were attempting to establish a foothold in Oyo State. He assured the public of ongoing security operations to counter these threats and commended security agencies for their efforts. The governor stressed that the safety of residents remains a top priority, urging community members to report suspicious activities to the authorities.

The event also highlighted the governor’s commitment to workers’ welfare. Makinde announced that discussions on revising pensioners’ remuneration in line with the new minimum wage would be finalized within the week. He pledged to ensure that agreements are reached collaboratively with stakeholders before any announcements.

In her welcome address, the Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, praised Governor Makinde’s worker-friendly policies and urged civil servants to remain dedicated. Other dignitaries, including representatives of the Oyo State House of Assembly and labor unions, commended the governor’s initiatives in promoting workers’ welfare and fostering a secure environment.

Governor Makinde concluded his remarks with a call for collective action to tackle insecurity and foster development across the state, promising that his administration would leave no stone unturned in delivering good governance to the people of Oyo State.