The unfortunate incident occurred during a youth festival at a high school in Ibadan, where over 5,000 young people had gathered to celebrate the festive season.
Governor Ododo’s Message
Expressing his grief, Governor Ododo stated:
“I want to express my deep sympathy for the government and people of Oyo State, where the unfortunate stampede claimed the lives of several young and promising Nigerians. Our prayers are with the families who lost their loved ones and the government and people of Oyo State in this trying moment.”
He also extended special condolences to the bereaved families, especially the women visibly affected by the devastating loss of their children.
Official Statement
In a press release issued by Hon. Ismaila Isah, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Governor Ododo conveyed his prayers for the repose of the victims’ souls and asked for divine fortitude for their grieving families.
“The Governor is deeply saddened by the tragic incident and has directed that a condolence message be sent to the government and people of Oyo State,” the statement read.
Call for Preventive Measures
Governor Ododo emphasized the need for enhanced crowd control and emergency response measures, particularly in events drawing large gatherings. He urged authorities to prioritize safety to prevent such tragedies in the future.
This solemn message highlights the Governor’s solidarity with Oyo State during this challenging time and underscores the importance of preventive strategies to ensure public safety in large gatherings.