Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has described the tragic death of children in a stampede at a private funfair in Ibadan last Wednesday as deeply sobering and avoidable, had proper safety measures been taken by the organisers.
He made this statement on Friday while receiving leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from the South-East geopolitical zone, who had visited to offer condolences over the incident.
In a gesture of respect for the victims, Governor Makinde announced the cancellation of his planned birthday lecture in Ebonyi State and his birthday party scheduled for December 25, in honor of the lost children.
The Governor expressed gratitude to the South-East PDP leaders, led by Dr. Adolphus Wabara, Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees and former Senate President, for their support during this difficult time.
The delegation also included prominent figures such as former Ebonyi State Governor, Dr. Sam Egwu; former National Secretary of the PDP, Senator Ben Obi; former National Woman Leader of the PDP, Iyom Josephine Anenih; the new National Secretary of the PDP, Chief SKE Udeokoye; PDP National Vice Chairman (South-East), Chief Ali Odefa; Chief Obasi Elebi, and the Ebonyi State PDP chairman, Chief Onyema Nwele.
Governor Makinde recounted the moments following the tragic event, stating, “This incident could have been avoided altogether. The victims were innocent children.
The pain of it all is that we could have prevented it.” He emphasized the importance of securing event venues, adding, “I had to send security to secure the area immediately.”
He also thanked the South-East PDP for their physical presence in Ibadan, acknowledging that while many had reached out, they were the first to visit in person. “This will not be lost on the people of Oyo State,” he remarked, deeply appreciating their solidarity.
In reflecting on the year’s hardships, Governor Makinde noted, “It’s been a difficult year. From the Bodija explosion earlier to this tragic loss, we are grateful for the support we’ve received. It strengthens us to know that we are not alone in facing these challenges.”
Dr. Wabara, speaking on behalf of the South-East PDP delegation, expressed heartfelt condolences, stating that the loss of the children was felt deeply across the region. “Your pain is our pain. These children are not just Ibadan residents; they are Nigerians, and we mourn their loss as much as you do. We pray for the fortitude to bear this tragedy.”
The Governor also used the occasion to congratulate Chief SKE Udeokoye, affirmed as the National Secretary of the PDP by the Court of Appeal, and the new Chairman of the PDP in Ebonyi State. He offered advice to Udeokoye, urging him to provide firm leadership, supported by the experienced Senator Ben Obi.
