Rita Odafe
The Southwest branch of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed heartfelt condolences to the Oyo State government and its people following a tragic stampede at a children’s Christmas event in Ibadan, which led to multiple fatalities and injuries.
This unfortunate event took place on Wednesday during a free Christmas fair aimed at children that attracted a large number of attendees, culminating in the tragic stampede.
PDP Southwest Publicity Secretary, Chief Sanya Atofarati, released a statement on Friday from Ado Ekiti, offering sympathy to Governor Seyi Makinde and the grieving families, wishing them strength during this difficult time.
Atofarati linked the incident to the prevailing economic hardships, which he believes have driven families to seek cost-free entertainment options for their children.
In part of the statement, he emphasized, “This incident serves as a call to the Federal Government to enhance living standards in Nigeria. It is a direct result of widespread poverty.”
He further stated, “The Federal Government must increase efforts to create sufficient job opportunities for parents, enabling them to care for their children adequately and improve their quality of life. This incident is a significant tragedy.”
“The PDP in Southwest deeply sympathizes with Oyo State’s residents and government over this tragic loss of young lives. We pray for comfort and strength for the families affected by this event.”
Atofarati also commended the quick response from Governor Makinde’s administration, highlighting their effective rescue operations that helped some of the injured children and their ongoing investigation into the incident.
