The Oyo State House of Assembly has called on the state executive arm of government to regulate large public gatherings to ensure safety and prevent tragic incidents.

The call followed a tragic stampede at a private children’s funfair in Ibadan on December 18, 2024, which resulted in the death of many lives, predominantly children.

The motion, titled “Need for the Executive Arm of Government to Regulate Large Public Gatherings to Ensure Safety and Prevent Tragic Incidents”, was moved by Abiodun Babalola (PDP-Ibadan North-East 1). It was co-sponsored by the House speaker, Adebo Ogundoyin (PDP-Ibarapa East).

The assembly noted the incident with profound sadness and acknowledged the government’s swift response in providing medical assistance to the victims.

However, the house emphasised the need for stronger governmental oversight and proactive inter-agency collaborations to prevent similar disasters.

It noted that gatherings, especially those anticipated to host many people, required comprehensive planning, suitable venues, crowd management strategies and emergency preparedness.

It said the absence of these measures would significantly increase the risk of avoidable incidents, such as stampedes, resulting in unnecessary loss of life.

The assembly noted that similar incidents occurred in Abuja and Anambra, hence the need for the government at all levels to take proactive steps.

It, therefore, resolved that the executive should henceforth ensure that proposed venues for public events expected to host 500 people and above meet safety and capacity standards.

According to the House, approvals for such events will follow the satisfaction of the required standards.

The assembly further called the executive to collaborate with the Ministry of Health to develop and enforce guidelines for event organisers on safety measures, crowd management, and emergency response preparedness.

It emphasised the need for organisers of gatherings involving minors to secure permits from relevant authorities before proceeding with such events.

The house harped on the need for law enforcement agencies to ensure that organisers of public gatherings comply with necessary procedures to prevent future tragedies.

Thereafter, it directed its Committee on Women Affairs and Social Inclusion to liaise with relevant ministries to propose practical steps to implement the measures and improve oversight of public gatherings.

(NAN)