Ibadan Stampede: Oyo Govt Warns Against Unregulated Valentine’s Day Celebrations

The Oyo State Government has issued a stern warning to corporate bodies, event planners, and anyone planning any celebrations in respect of St. Valentine’s Day to ensure they adhere to the State rules and regulations.

The Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade in a statement said many broadcast stations have been airing adverts and promotions inviting people to celebrate Valentine’s Day at various venues.

The commissioner emphasized that all stakeholders planning such events must actively involve security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), the Nigeria Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Amotekun, Operation Burst, and other security arms, to ensure they have proper logistics in place for seamless gatherings.

The Commissioner also insisted that there must be a consensus between the planners, security and medical personnel on the choices of the venues.

It added that the State Ministry of Health and the Hospitals Management Board must be involved, along with private hospitals where necessary, to ensure adequate medical support.

The Commissioner warned that anyone who flouts this directive will face the full wrath of the law. He reminded the public that the State is still mourning the unnecessary death of 35 children at a gathering in Ibadan on the 18th of December, 2024.