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In a bold move to avert future disasters, the Oyo State House of Assembly has called on the executive arm of government to impose strict regulations on large public gatherings. This decisive action comes in the wake of a catastrophic stampede at a children’s funfair held at the Islamic High School, Orita-Bashorun, Ibadan on December 18, 2024—a tragedy that claimed 35 lives, most of whom were children.
The motion, entitled “Need for the executive arm of government to regulate large public gatherings to ensure safety and prevent tragic incidents,” was spearheaded by Hon. A.O. Babalola (Ibadan North-East 1) and co-sponsored by several key legislators including Speaker Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin (Ibarapa East), Leader of the House 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).
Expressing profound sorrow over the recent events, the Assembly acknowledged the swift response of the state government in providing medical aid to the victims. However, lawmakers stressed that reactive measures are insufficient without proactive steps to mitigate risks. “The absence of these safety measures significantly increases the risk of avoidable incidents such as stampedes, which lead to needless loss of life,” the motion stated.
The legislators also referenced similar tragedies, including the December 21, 2024 stampede at a charity event at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja—which resulted in at least 10 deaths, and a concurrent stampede at a food distribution event in Okija, Anambra State, where 22 people lost their lives. “These incidents highlight the pervasive dangers associated with unregulated large gatherings across the country,” the motion noted.
To address these risks, the House resolved to push the executive arm to ensure that all venues hosting 500 or more attendees comply with stringent safety and capacity standards before being granted approval. The Assembly also urged a collaborative effort with the Ministry of Health to establish and enforce comprehensive guidelines for event organizers on safety measures, crowd management, and emergency preparedness.
Lawmakers further underscored that events involving minors must secure permits from the appropriate authorities, and that law enforcement agencies must rigorously monitor compliance to prevent future tragedies. Additionally, the House has tasked its Committee on Women Affairs and Social Inclusion with working alongside relevant ministries to develop practical steps for implementing these necessary reforms and enhancing oversight of public gatherings.
This robust call for reform underscores the Assembly’s commitment to public safety and its determination to prevent further loss of life from avoidable incidents.
