By Adeyinka Adeniran
Oyo state government has mandated all media outfits and organizations hosting end of the year children’s funfairs and other public gatherings to implement a robust safety measures throughout the period of their programmes.
In a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, said the state government will act firmly in dealing with organisers of any social gathering which may potentially jeopardize the safety of the populace particularly the children and the elderly, as the year runs to an end.
He said the state government has observed with alarm that despite the unfortunate incident which befell many families 48 hours ago at the Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, where 35 lives mostly children were lost and many others injured, many media houses are still running jingles for end of the year children’s funfair.
The commissioner disclosed that the state is still reeling in the shock of the recent avoidable sad incident and members of the public should show solidarity in commiserating with the bereaved families as the State strives to rise from the dust of mourning.
The statement notes that although some organisations have decided to give children a beautiful end of the year funfair, the State Government will not look away from any sight of potential danger such gatherings may present especially to children.
It mandates all media houses and other children’s funfair organizers in the State to engage relevant security agencies and medical personnel including the State Ministry of Health on concrete arrangement to ensure adequate measures are put in place to prevent the repeat of the black Wednesday.
“We encourage all event planners to prioritize provision of adequate security personnel on-site, proper crowd control measures, and immediate access to medical assistance.
“As we celebrate yuletide we must also acknowledge the responsibilities that come with hosting such events.
“The tragic incident at Islamic High School which claimed 35 lives is a wake-up call for all of us.
“We must learn from this experience and take necessary steps to ensure that our children can enjoy these programmes in a safe and secured environment”, the Commissioner said
