In anticipation of Valentine’s Day celebrations, the Oyo State government has issued a stern warning to event organizers and businesses, urging strict adherence to safety regulations.
The Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, noted the numerous advertisements promoting Valentine’s Day events and emphasized the need to avoid a repeat of the tragic incident on December 18, 2024, where 35 children lost their lives at a funfair.
The government mandates that all event planners collaborate with security agencies, including the police, NSCDC, Amotekun, and Operation Burst, to ensure well-organized and safe gatherings.
Venue selection must be agreed upon by event planners, security personnel, and medical staff. The Commissioner also stressed the required involvement of the Ministry of Health, the hospital management board, and private hospitals (as needed) to guarantee adequate medical support.
Oyelade warned that violators of this directive will face serious legal repercussions. He reiterated that the state remains in mourning following the December tragedy and is committed to preventing future occurrences.
