A prominent lawyer representing Hamzat Oriyomi and Naomi, two individuals detained following the tragic stampede in Ibadan, has raised concerns over the legality of the charges against them. In a statement issued today, the lawyer argued that the legal basis for holding the two suspects—who are also linked to the school principal of a local educational institution—is highly questionable.
The lawyer stated that the charges under which the individuals have been detained are not recognized by law, citing the practice of "holding charges" as a method of keeping suspects in custody without clear legal grounds or a formal trial. According to Nigerian law, all individuals are entitled to a fair and speedy trial, and the use of holding charges without sufficient evidence or a formal indictment violates fundamental rights.
The incident in question occurred at a crowded event in Ibadan, where a tragic stampede resulted in numerous injuries and fatalities. Hamzat Oriyomi and Naomi, who were present at the scene, were detained by the police in connection with the event. The principal of the school, whose involvement remains under investigation, is said to have close ties to the detained individuals.
While the investigation into the causes and responsibilities of the stampede continues, the lawyer emphasized that all parties involved must be afforded due process under the law. The use of holding charges, the lawyer stressed, undermines the legal framework that protects individual rights and freedoms in Nigeria.