Federal Government of Nigeria Gives Reason for Ordering Investigation into Ibadan Stampede

President Bola Tinubu expressed deep condolences to the Government and people of Oyo State, as well as to the grieving families affected by the recent tragic stampede. Through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu conveyed his solidarity during this time of mourning and offered prayers for the souls of the over 35 persons, mostly children who perished.

 

President Tinubu also directed relevant authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. According to the statement, he gave the directive because it is important to determine whether negligence or deliberate actions contributed to the incident, stating, “It is imperative that we ensure a transparent and accountable process to uncover the truth.” The President's call for a thorough investigation underscores his commitment to accountability and justice.


Furthermore in his statement, President Tinubu urged the Oyo State Government to take immediate and necessary measures to prevent such tragedies in the future. He called for a comprehensive review of safety protocols for public events and the strict enforcement of safety regulations. Additionally, he advocated for regular audits of event venues to ensure the safety of attendees.

President Tinubu highlighted the importance of event organizers prioritizing the safety of all participants, especially children. He underscored the critical need for professional security measures, proper logistics, and adherence to safety protocols at all events. “Our children’s safety and well-being remain paramount. No event should ever compromise their safety or take precedence over their lives,” he asserted.


First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, also extended her condolences to Governor Seyi Makinde and the people of Oyo State. In a statement she personally signed, Mrs. Tinubu expressed her sympathy for the families, friends, and loved ones of the deceased. She offered prayers for the speedy recovery and total healing of those still in the hospital, adding, “May the Lord grant peace to Oyo State, comfort to the families who have lost their loved ones, and hope to those grieving at this time. My heartfelt condolences to all those affected by this devastating incident.”

The stampede occurred on Wednesday, December 18, 2024 in an Islamic School in Basorun Ibadan in a funfair as people jostled for food and gifts, highlighting the critical need for improved crowd management at large gatherings. This tragic event has drawn attention to the importance of implementing effective crowd control measures to prevent such incidents in the future.

In light of the tragedy, President Tinubu has outlined a series of actions to enhance public safety at events:

President Tinubu has mandated a thorough review of all existing safety protocols for public events. This review aims to identify and address any gaps in the current safety measures to ensure they are robust and effective.

The President emphasized the need for strict enforcement of safety regulations at all public events. He called on local authorities to ensure compliance with these regulations to protect the well-being of all attendees.

Regular audits of event venues have been recommended to ensure they meet safety standards. These audits will assess the structural integrity and safety features of the venues to prevent any potential hazards.

Event organizers are urged to implement professional security measures. This includes hiring trained security personnel to manage crowds and ensure orderly conduct during events.

Proper logistics and planning are crucial to the success of any event. President Tinubu stressed the importance of meticulous planning to address potential risks and ensure the safety of all participants.

To complement these measures, the government plans to launch public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on safety protocols and the importance of adhering to them during public gatherings.

President Tinubu’s response to the tragedy reflects his commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all Nigerians. He has called for unity and compassion in the face of this heartbreaking incident, urging all stakeholders to work together to prevent such tragedies from recurring.

The President’s comprehensive action plan aims to create a safer environment for public events, ensuring that such incidents become a thing of the past. His dedication to transparency, accountability, and preventive measures underscores his resolve to protect the lives of all citizens, particularly the most vulnerable.