67 Deaths: States Enforce Strict Safety Measures for large gatherings.

In the wake of devastating stampedes that claimed 67 lives, including 35 children, during food distribution events and funfairs in Ibadan, Oyo State; Okija, Anambra State; and Abuja, several states have adopted safety measures to prevent future tragedies. These incidents, driven by the rush for free food items, have sparked nationwide concern over safety protocols at large public gatherings.

Tragedy Sparks Action Across States

The fatal events in Ibadan, where 35 children lost their lives, alongside 10 fatalities in Abuja and 22 in Okija, have prompted swift responses from state governments. Authorities are now focusing on implementing crowd control measures and creating safer environments for public events.

Lagos State’s Proactive Approach

The Lagos State Government has introduced strict regulations for event organisers, mandating registration with state safety agencies for gatherings exceeding 250 attendees. During a media briefing on Sunday, State Commissioners Gbenga Oyerinde (Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Relations) and Gbenga Omotosho (Information and Strategy) underscored the importance of proper crowd management.

“Any individual or organisation planning large events or distributing items must secure clearance from the state government and safety commissions,” said Omotosho. He also noted that organisers could request ambulances from the government at a reasonable fee.

Additionally, residents have been encouraged to use Lagos’s toll-free emergency lines, 767 and 112, for immediate assistance during emergencies. The Director-General of the Lagos Safety Commission, Lanre Mojola, revealed that registration for large events is now accessible online, making the process more streamlined.

Ondo State Introduces Comprehensive Guidelines

In Ondo State, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, announced new crowd control directives grounded in constitutional and legal frameworks. These guidelines require organisers to inform local authorities about event details, including the venue, timing, and expected crowd size.

Key measures include deploying adequate police and security personnel, installing monitoring tools such as CCTV and drones, and ensuring access to drinking water and mobile toilets. For gatherings exceeding 300 participants, organisers must provide on-site medical teams, ambulances, and emergency response plans.

“These safety measures are designed to prevent avoidable tragedies and promote a safer environment for public events,” Ajulo stated.

Structured Distribution in Anambra and Abia States

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State expressed deep sorrow over the recent loss of lives and emphasised the need for a safer, more structured approach to distributing relief materials. He urged organisers to establish multiple distribution points, prioritise vulnerable groups like children and the elderly, and employ trained personnel for crowd management.

Similarly, Abia State Governor Alex Otti issued a public safety alert, advising event organisers to consult local authorities or the state’s Homeland Security for guidance. Otti warned against unethical practices such as throwing money or gifts into crowds, which can provoke dangerous stampedes. “The government will impose severe penalties on anyone who violates these safety directives,” he added.

Decentralised Distribution in Akwa Ibom and Kogi States

Akwa Ibom and Kogi states have implemented decentralised systems for palliative distribution. Akwa Ibom’s Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Ini Ememobong, explained that palliatives are distributed at the village level to avoid large gatherings. “This system ensures manageable crowd sizes and has been effective for us,” he said.

In Kogi State, Information Commissioner Kingsley Fanwo highlighted a similar approach. Food items are distributed from local government areas down to wards and polling units, minimising the risk of overcrowding.

A Nationwide Call for Safety

The recent stampedes have underscored the urgent need for improved crowd control measures at public events. Across Nigeria, states are adopting stricter guidelines to ensure that such tragedies are not repeated. By prioritising safety and organisation, authorities aim to create a secure environment for both organisers and participants during large gatherings.