Oyo Assembly Takes Action to Prevent Stampede-related Deaths

In response to the tragic stampede at a children’s funfair in Ibadan, the Oyo State House of Assembly has called on the executive branch to regulate large public gatherings to ensure public safety and prevent future disasters.

The motion followed the tragic stampede that occurred on December 18, 2024, at the Islamic High School, Orita-Bashorun, Ibadan, during a children’s event, which resulted in the deaths of 35 people, mainly children.

The motion, titled “Need for the executive arm of government to regulate large public gatherings to ensure safety and prevent tragic incidents,” was introduced by Hon. A.O. Babalola (Ibadan North-East 1) and co-sponsored by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin (Ibarapa East), House Leader S.A. Onaolapo (Ogbomoso South), A.O. Owolabi (Ibadan North East II), O.A. Omikunle (Ibadan South East II), O.C. Rahman (Oyo East/West), and O.A. Ogunsola (Iwajowa).

The House expressed deep sorrow over the incident and acknowledged the swift response from the state government in providing medical aid to the victims.

The motion emphasized that without proper regulations, the risk of preventable accidents, like stampedes, increases significantly, leading to unnecessary loss of life. It also pointed to similar incidents in other states, highlighting the need for all levels of government to take proactive measures to address the issue.

The motion also referenced a stampede that occurred on December 21, 2024, during a charity event at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, where at least 10 people, including children, lost their lives. Additionally, a stampede during a food distribution event in Okija, Anambra State, on the same day claimed 22 lives. These incidents underscored the dangerous risks posed by large public gatherings across the country.

In response, the House resolved to urge the executive arm of government to ensure that venues for public events hosting 500 people or more meet appropriate safety and capacity standards before approval is granted.

The Assembly further called on the executive to work with the Ministry of Health to develop and enforce guidelines for event organizers, including safety protocols, crowd management, and emergency response plans.

Lawmakers also emphasized the importance of event organizers, particularly those involving minors, obtaining the necessary permits from the relevant authorities before hosting such events. They urged law enforcement agencies to ensure that organizers adhere to the required procedures to prevent future tragedies.

Additionally, the House tasked its Committee on Women Affairs and Social Inclusion to collaborate with the relevant ministries to propose effective strategies for implementing these measures and improving oversight of public gatherings.