Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has introduced mandatory safety clearances for public charity events, aiming to prevent tragic stampedes that have recently claimed lives across Nigeria.
In a statement on Monday, Sanwo-Olu expressed deep sympathy for victims of the Ibadan stampede and their families. “My thoughts are with the families who lost loved ones in these unfortunate incidents,” he said, urging swift action to ensure such tragedies never recur.
Effective immediately, organisers of philanthropic events in Lagos State must obtain safety clearances from the Lagos State Safety Commission. “This measure will guarantee proper crowd control and ensure public safety during large gatherings,” Sanwo-Olu explained.
READ MORE: Budget of Restoration: Tinubu Aims for Economic Stability with N49.7trn Proposal
The Safety Commission is working closely with security agencies to oversee event compliance. A dedicated platform has been launched to streamline the registration and clearance process for organisers. “Safety is our collective responsibility,” the governor added, urging stakeholders to prioritize the well-being of attendees.
The initiative follows a series of fatal stampedes at charity events nationwide, prompting calls for stricter regulation. Recent tragedies have underscored the urgent need for preventive measures, with dozens losing their lives during uncontrolled distributions.
Event organisers are encouraged to contact the Safety Commission for guidance on compliance, ensuring every event is safe and orderly.
