Ibadan stampede: Gov Abiodun advocates government-NGO collaboration to avert distribution tragedies
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has urged Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), charitable organizations, and individuals distributing palliative aid to collaborate with the government to prevent chaotic situations that could result in loss of lives.
Governor Abiodun made this appeal during a visit to his Oyo State counterpart, Governor Seyi Makinde, at his office in Ibadan.
The visit was prompted by the recent stampede in Ibadan, where an aid distribution initiative turned tragic. Governor Abiodun noted that the incident, which claimed 35 lives, might have been averted if the state government had been involved.
Speaking on behalf of the Ogun State Government and the Southern Governors’ Forum (SGF), Governor Abiodun expressed his condolences, saying, “It is most unfortunate that, in response to the current realities, an NGO decided to share the joy of the season, leading to the loss of lives. We have witnessed similar incidents in Anambra and Abuja during this yuletide period.”
He emphasized the importance of involving the government in such initiatives to ensure proper planning and execution.
“As a responsible government, we carry out such initiatives with the help of designated officials who plan and ensure proper implementation. I urge private organizations and NGOs to collaborate with the government to avoid such tragedies in the future,” he added.
The governor further stated that the Southern Governors’ Forum deeply regrets the loss and, as its Chairman, he was there to condole with Oyo State. He reiterated the bond between the two neighboring states, noting that any tragedy affecting one impacts the other.
Governor Abiodun also prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and for their families to find the strength to bear the loss. He wished the people of Oyo State a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
In his response, Governor Makinde thanked Governor Abiodun for the visit, describing it as an opportunity to exchange ideas for the mutual benefit of both states.
He further revealed plans for a Peer Review session between Ogun and Oyo States in the coming year to identify areas of collaboration and learning.
