The National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) expresses profound grief and horror at the devastating death of over 35 innocent children who tragically lost their lives during a stampede at the Christmas funfair held at the Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan. This tragedy is deeply saddening and is an immense blow to our collective humanity.
Our hearts go out to the bereaved parents and families who have been plunged into inconsolable sorrow. The loss of a child is an unbearable pain, and we share in their anguish. We extend our deepest condolences and prayers for strength and comfort during this dark time.
It is particularly distressing to note that poor crowd control measures would have played a significant role in this preventable calamity. The entire catastrophe highlights a critical failure in public safety planning and crowd control management. The absence of adequate measures to regulate and secure such a large gathering reflects a disturbing disregard for human life. It is deeply disappointing that in 2024, Nigeria continues to grapple with the most basic issues of public safety and event management, a glaring indication of systemic lapses in governance and oversight. With over 5,000 children gathered for the event, the absence of adequate planning, security, and emergency response systems underscores a grave failing in ensuring the safety of such vulnerable participants.
This tragedy is a stark reminder of the urgent need for stricter regulatory oversight and enforcement of safety standards at public gatherings, particularly those involving minors. It is imperative that authorities, event organizers, and stakeholders take responsibility for ensuring the safety and security of attendees to prevent a recurrence of such a heartbreaking incident. It also brings to the front burner the need for swift emergency response by bodies such as the State and National Emergency Management Agencies, and the Fire Services.
We call on the Oyo State government and relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragedy and hold accountable those whose negligence may have contributed to the loss of young lives.
As an organization committed to promoting the highest levels of human dignity and social responsibility, we stand ready to support initiatives aimed at improving public safety and preventing such tragedies in the future.
Beyond the immediate cause of the stampede lies a more menacing reality – the widespread hunger, crippling poverty, and desperation that compelled such a large population to converge on the venue for food and other material gifts. This is a palpable reminder of the harsh economic conditions many Nigerians face daily, where basic survival remains a struggle.
We hold the government accountable for its failure to address the pervasive issues of poverty and inequality that have left millions of Nigerians in such dire straits. The absence of robust social safety nets, coupled with inadequate (and mostly epileptic) economic policies, has led to a state of desperation that forces citizens, including children, to seek sustenance in unsafe and overcrowded conditions.
We strongly urge the government to expedite the implementation of stabilising and comprehensive policies aimed at lifting Nigerians out of poverty. This includes creating sustainable job opportunities, improving access to quality education and healthcare, ensuring food security for all, and cutting the ever-revolting cost of government. The time for action is now; we cannot continue to ignore the plight of millions struggling to survive.
May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may their memories inspire a collective resolve to prioritise the safety and welfare of our children.
Dr Joseph Oteri
NAS Capoon
