Stampede: Lagos govt issues warnings to event organisers

The Lagos State Government has called on philanthropists, individuals, and organizations to register with the state’s safety agencies when organizing events that will attract more than 250 guests. It warned that any event organizer who flouts this directive will be sanctioned.

The state government stated that this measure is imperative to prevent incidents of stampedes at such events.

The State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso; his counterpart in Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Relations, Mr. Gbenga Oyerinde; and heads of the State Safety Commission reiterated this during a press conference held at Alausa, Ikeja. The conference was prompted by recent incidents in Oyo and Anambra states, as well as Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, which led to the deaths of 57 people within four days.

They emphasized the need for adequate preparations for crowd control before embarking on any philanthropic gestures or events to prevent similar occurrences in Lagos State.

Omotoso stated that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is deeply concerned about reports of stampedes in other parts of the country and is determined to ensure such incidents do not occur in Lagos.

He stressed that charity must not turn tragic and urged event organizers to adhere to all safety protocols. He also called for cooperation with the state government on emergency management.

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According to Omotoso, the state government views the tragic incidents in other states and Abuja as a warning and is taking proactive measures to prevent such occurrences in Lagos.

“The Lagos State Government is seriously concerned about the recent stampede incidents in Oyo, Anambra, and Abuja,” Omotoso said.

“In Lagos, we have established preparations for large events. To prevent stampedes, any individual, group, or organization planning to distribute items or host events involving large crowds must obtain clearance from the Lagos State Government. Those planning large gatherings are required to register with the safety commission,” he added.

He also noted that event organizers can apply for ambulances from the state government at a reasonable fee.

Similarly, the State Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Relations, Mr. Oyerinde, urged Lagos residents to make use of the toll-free emergency lines 767 and 112 whenever necessary, to enable safety agencies to provide prompt assistance.