The alumni of Islamic High School, Basorun, Ibadan, Oyo State, have called for the immediate release of the school principal, Abdullah Fasasi, who is currently in police custody following the tragic stampede at the school. The incident, which occurred during a funfair, led to the loss of 35 lives.
Speaking to journalists in Ibadan on Saturday, the National President of the Islamic High School Old Students Association, Bayo Busari, expressed the group’s concern over the situation. He clarified that the association fully supports the ongoing police investigation but strongly opposes the narrative suggesting that Mr. Fasasi personally approved the use of the school premises for the event.
Mr. Busari emphasized that the responsibility for granting approval lay with the Oyo State Ministry of Education, which had authorized Agidigbo FM to use the school facilities since 2023. He explained that Agidigbo FM routinely informed the school before utilizing the premises, presenting proof of payment to the government as confirmation of their authorization.
READ MORE: Nigerian President Denies Withdrawing Security from Northern Governors or Closing Lagos Mosques
He stated, “The narrative that the principal approved the use of the facility is entirely false. According to our information, Agidigbo FM had approached the principal a few days before the event. He directed them to seek the necessary approval from the Ministry of Education and make the required payment. Once payment is made, the organizer typically provides proof of authorization, which the school accepts. The principal, under these circumstances, has no grounds to deny access.”
Mr. Busari also criticized a statement from a director in the Ministry of Education claiming ignorance of the program. He expressed disbelief that the ministry would distance itself from an event it had previously approved.
“The alumni association is baffled that the principal, who neither organized the event nor granted the approval, is being held accountable. We urge the authorities to release him immediately. We are prepared to provide assurances for his release on administrative bail,” Mr. Busari concluded.
The alumni group reiterated its commitment to justice for the victims while maintaining that the principal should not bear the blame for the tragedy.