President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic stampede at a children’s funfair in Ibadan, Oyo state, which claimed the lives of several children and left many others injured.
The incident, which has plunged the nation into mourning, occurred on Wednesday, December 18, 2024.
In a statement issued by his special adviser on information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President extended his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Oyo state, as well as to the grieving families.
“President Tinubu stands in solidarity with the affected families and offers prayers that the Almighty God will grant peace to the souls of those who have departed in this unfortunate event,” the statement read.
The President also directed relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the tragedy, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability.
“It is imperative to determine whether negligence or deliberate actions contributed to this painful incident,” he stated, calling for a full assessment of the circumstances surrounding the stampede.
In addition to demanding accountability, President Tinubu urged the Oyo State Government to implement stringent safety measures to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
This includes a comprehensive review of safety protocols at public events, strict enforcement of regulations, and regular audits of event venues.
The President further appealed to event organizers to prioritize safety, especially for children, stressing the importance of professional security, protocol, and logistics.
“Our children’s safety and well-being remain paramount. No event should ever compromise their safety or take precedence over their lives,” he asserted.
