As part of efforts to prevent tragedies at public events, several states have begun implementing strict precautionary measures.
This follows the deaths of 67 people, including 35 children, during stampedes in Ibadan, Oyo State; Okija, Anambra State; and Abuja at a funfair and food distribution ceremonies.
In the rush to secure free food items, some participants were trampled, leading to fatalities. The police confirmed that 35 children died in Ibadan, 10 people in Abuja, and 22 in Okija.
In response, the Lagos State Government has mandated individuals and groups to register with state safety agencies when organising events expected to host more than 250 attendees, both during and after the Yuletide season.
The government warned that non-compliance with this directive would result in sanctions for event organisers.
During a media briefing on Sunday, the State Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Relations, Gbenga Oyerinde, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotosho, and heads of state safety commissions emphasised the need for proper crowd control to prevent such tragedies.
“The Lagos State Government is deeply concerned about the recent stampede incidents in Oyo, Anambra, and Abuja. Anyone planning to distribute items or organise large gatherings must obtain clearance and register with the state’s safety commissions,” Omotosho stated.
He also mentioned that event organisers could request ambulances from the state government at an affordable fee.
Oyerinde urged residents to use the state’s toll-free emergency lines, 767 and 112, for immediate assistance during emergencies.
Additionally, the Director-General of the Lagos Safety Commission, Lanre Mojola, announced that the registration process for large gatherings had been made accessible online.
In a similar move, Ondo State’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, introduced new crowd control guidelines for law enforcement, event organisers, and local authorities on Sunday.
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