Stampedes: ‘No Event Is Worth A Life’ – Lagos Govt Warns Show Promoters

The Lagos State Government has urged show promoters, NGOs, corporate organizations, and private individuals to prioritize crowd management when organizing events to prevent stampedes.

This call was made by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotosho, during a press conference on Sunday.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that Omotosho highlighted recent stampedes in Ibadan, Abuja, and Okija, Anambra State, which resulted in casualties, emphasizing the need for vigilance and adherence to safety protocols.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu also expressed his condolences to the affected families through a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Gboyega Akosile.

The Commissioner noted that event organizers must register with the Lagos State Safety Commission to ensure proper safety measures are in place. He stressed that acts of charity or events distributing freebies should not endanger lives, pointing out that such tragedies often stem from poor planning rather than poverty alone.

Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Mr. Gbenga Oyerinde, stated that Lagos has maintained a four-year record without stampedes and remains committed to upholding this safety standard. He also encouraged residents to use toll-free emergency lines (767 and 112) for reporting incidents.

Mrs. Margaret Adeseye, Director of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, called for fire safety awareness during the Harmattan season, attributing fire outbreaks to carelessness. She advised residents to avoid storing fireworks, selling fuel in markets, and keeping gas cylinders near cookers.

Lanre Mojola, Director-General of the Lagos Safety Commission, emphasized the requirement for event organizers expecting over 250 participants to secure a permit via the state’s safety registration platform. He stressed the importance of assessing venues and having security and ambulances on standby.

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