Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has announced the cancellation of his upcoming birthday celebrations.
The decision comes in the wake of a devastating stampede at a children's carnival held at the Islamic High School in Basorun, Ibadan, which resulted in the deaths of 35 children and left six others hospitalized.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, December 18, when a large crowd gathered at the event, drawn by promises of cash handouts and food. The overwhelming turnout led to a crush as attendees struggled to gain entry, culminating in the tragic loss of young lives.
Governor Makinde, visibly moved by the tragedy, expressed his deep sorrow and described the incident as "painful, unfortunate and preventable." In a statement made on Friday while receiving a condolence visit from the South-East delegation of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by its Board of Trustees Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, Makinde declared, "I will not go out; no birthday celebration this year."
The governor's birthday was scheduled for December 25th, but he emphasized the need to honour the memory of the deceased children by foregoing any festivities. "On behalf of the government and the people of Oyo State, we appreciate you for coming," Makinde said, acknowledging the support from the PDP delegation.
Senator Wabara, speaking on behalf of the visiting party leaders, conveyed their condolences to the governor and the people of Oyo State. "We, the people of South-East, feel the pain of the sudden death of the 35 children. We pray God to grant you and the people of the state, particularly the parents of the victims, the fortitude to bear the loss," Wabara stated.
The tragic event has prompted an investigation, with eight individuals detained as authorities seek to understand the circumstances that led to the stampede.
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