The Oyo State Government has cautioned corporate organizations, event planners, and individuals against organizing unregulated Valentine’s Day celebrations.
The move follows the December 2024 tragedy in Ibadan, where 35 children lost their lives during a poorly managed gathering.
In a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, the government emphasized that all Valentine’s Day events must comply with state regulations to ensure public safety.
“It has come to our attention that several broadcast stations are promoting various Valentine’s Day events,” Prince Oyelade said in a statement. “We are calling on all stakeholders to prioritize safety and security by involving relevant agencies and authorities.”
The government mandated the inclusion of security agencies such as the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Civil Defence Corps, Amotekun Corps, and Operation Burst in the planning of these events. “Planners must collaborate with these security arms to ensure proper logistics are in place for seamless gatherings,” he added.
Additionally, the Ministry of Health, the Hospitals Management Board, and private medical facilities are to be actively involved to provide medical support during events.
Prince Oyelade stressed that the choice of venues must be carefully vetted through consensus among organizers, security agencies, and medical personnel to avoid any mishap.
“Let me be clear: anyone found flouting these directives will face the full wrath of the law,” he warned. “The tragedy of December 18, 2024, which claimed the lives of 35 children, is still fresh in our memory. Such incidents must never happen again.”
