By Joyce Onuora
The Zonal Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Kevin Tobias Chukwu, Ochiri Ozua 1 of Amagu, Ikwo LGA, Ebonyi State, has expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences to Governor Seyi Makinde over the tragic loss of children in a devastating incident that has left many in mourning.
At least 35 children lost their lives in a stampede during a Christmas funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Speaking to journalists in Abakaliki shortly after the postponement of the birthday celebration/book launch of Governor Seyi Makinde, which was scheduled to hold in Ebonyi, Chief Tobias described the incident as heartbreaking, especially during a festive season meant for joy and celebration.
“The news came to us as a shock, and it is undoubtedly a very sad event. Over 40 innocent children losing their lives in such a manner is a devastating blow. I use this opportunity to commiserate with the people of Oyo State and Governor Seyi Makinde, urging them to find the strength to overcome this terrible loss,” he said.
The tragedy, which occurred at the Islamic High School in Bashorun, Ibadan, was reportedly caused by a stampede as children scrambled to receive prizes during the funfair organized by Naomi Silekunola. Eight individuals, including the event organizer and the school principal, have been arrested by the police as investigations into the incident continue.
Chief Tobias commended the government for its prompt action in arresting those responsible and called for measures to prevent such incidents in the future. “There must be safer ways to manage large gatherings, especially those involving children. Organizers must ensure adequate crowd control, and whatever caused this stampede must be thoroughly investigated and addressed,” he added.
He also advised parents to take greater responsibility in safeguarding their children during events of such magnitude. “Parents must not leave their children unattended in large gatherings. Vigilance is key to preventing further tragedies,” he cautioned.
When asked about the fate of the event, Chief Tobias revealed that the birthday lecture and book launch in honor of Governor Seyi Makinde had been postponed in light of the tragedy. “I believe the event has been postponed, not canceled entirely. It may be rescheduled for another time, but it is certainly not this year,” he said.
In a related development, leaders from Ebonyi State and the South-East region on Thursday announced the postponement of the governor’s birthday lecture and book launch.
Announcing the postponement, Hon. Ali Odefa, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, noted that Governor Makinde and Oyo State cannot mourn, and the event will go on in Ebonyi.
He said, “My friend had prepared to come here and be with us today. He sent an advance team two days ago. The advance team and the chief of staff have been here two days ago.
“But when this incident happened, there is no how a state will be mourning, some families, because of this incident, do not know the meaning of Christmas anymore.
“They cannot be crying while we are dancing and rejoicing. So, it is painful, it is sad, but that’s the reality.”
He said the leaders at the event met and decided to postpone it.
“If you look at this place, you will see that this is a gathering of Igbo leaders, non-partisan. We are not talking about party A or party B. These are a collection of Igbo leaders here sitting. So, we have decided to cancel the event for today and shift it to another time.
“We will tell you the date when that one has been fixed. And we will make efforts to bring all of you together again.”
Afterwards, a minute silence was observed in honour of the victims.
