By Adeboye Ado
Residents of Akoko have commended the Ondo State Government for its proactive measures to prevent stampedes at events, following a series of tragic incidents across the country.
Recent reports indicate that over 60 individuals lost their lives in stampedes last week in Ibadan, Abuja, and Anambra State. In response, the state government announced guidelines aimed at preventing similar occurrences.
Speaking during a telephone interview on Tuesday, Chief Ganiyu Bello, the Olodeke of Ekan Ikare, lauded the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for its timely intervention. He urged event organisers to strictly adhere to the government’s directives to safeguard attendees.
“I urge our people to adhere to the measures highlighted by the Ondo State Governor. I commend Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for projecting into future so as to curb the tragedy in our state. Also, our event planners should strictly adhere to the guidelines,” Chief Bello stated.
Similarly, Mrs Anike Ologunofe, a women leader from Ikun Akoko in Akoko South West Local Government Area, urged mothers to monitor their children’s movements closely during the festive season to protect them from dangerous gatherings.
“Parents must give their children close watch. So many children were victims in the recent stampedes. May God help us not to fall victim,” she said.
In addition, a retiree, Mr Rasheed Amuda, extended his condolences to families affected by past tragedies. He also called for collective vigilance to prevent similar disasters in the future.