December 24, 2024
By Adedoja Adesoji
The Agbekoya Parapo Worldwide, a leading coalition of Agbekoya groups and defenders of Yoruba culture, has outlined strategies for the Federal and State Governments to prevent future deaths caused by poor crowd management during palliative distribution.
In a statement released on Monday, the group expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incidents that led to the loss of lives in Ibadan, Abuja, and Okija-Anambra. “We are heartbroken by the untimely passing of thirty-five (35) innocent souls—mostly children—during a stampede at a children’s Christmas carnival,” said Aare Kunle Oshodi, President General Worldwide of Agbekoya Parapo.
To prevent such tragedies, Agbekoya Parapo recommends that the government engage non-state security actors to ensure law and order during events.
The group noted that the Nigerian Police Force, with approximately 140,000 personnel, falls short of the United Nations’ recommended ratio of one police officer per 450 citizens.
Agbekoya Parapo emphasized the need for the government to take proactive measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The group called for a collaborative effort between traditional leaders, community elders, non-governmental organizations, and government bodies to establish secure frameworks for palliative distributions.
The group also urged the organizers of palliative distributions to prioritize the safety and well-being of the beneficiaries. “Organizers should ensure that invitations are posted in advance, specifying the number of invitees to prevent overcrowding,” said Agbekoya Parapo.,
The group recommended that children, pregnant women, people living with disabilities, and the elderly should be given priority during palliative distributions.
As the festive season reaches its peak, Agbekoya Parapo urged the Inspector General of Police and security agencies to remain vigilant and proactive in monitoring large gatherings, ensuring public safety across all regions.
The group appealed to the general public to prioritize caution, patience, and calmness during palliative distributions to prevent further tragedies.
Agbekoya Parapo expressed solidarity with the families of the deceased and prayed for strength and comfort for those affected. “May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may our collective actions ensure such grievous incidents do not reoccur,” said Aare Kunle Oshodi.
