Oyo Lawmaker, Olufunke Comforter, Seeks Safety Rules for Large Gatherings
Hon. (Dr) Olufunke Comforter has urged Oyo State to regulate large gatherings to prevent tragedies and ensure public safety.
During Thursday’s plenary, the Ibadan North 1 lawmaker presented her committee’s report calling for formal legislation on public events.
As Chair of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Community Development, she emphasized proactive measures to protect lives.
Previously, on February 11, 2025, the House directed her committee to consult relevant ministries and security agencies for input.
The committee subsequently met with officials from the Ministries of Health, Women Affairs, and the Office of the Security Adviser.
Also present were representatives from the Oyo State Security Trust Fund (OYSSTF), contributing technical advice on safety protocols.
From the meetings, the Ministry of Health revealed it had already developed safety guidelines for public events statewide.
These guidelines recommend organizers conduct risk assessments, use trained security, and secure formal approvals before hosting large gatherings.
They also suggest the use of registration systems, ensure proper ventilation, and maintain designated zones for various attendee groups.
In addition, they require barriers, queue management, and staggered entries to minimize crowd congestion and enhance control.
Health officials further insisted on functional First Aid stations and unobstructed exits at all venues hosting public events.
Similarly, the Ministry of Women Affairs proposed more detailed protocols to support inclusive safety for all categories of attendees.
They called for event planner training, pre-event safety plans, and mandatory evidence of collaboration with relevant security agencies.
Moreover, the Ministry advised that special zones be created for children, seniors, and persons with disabilities at such venues.
Planners should also have fire extinguishers, emergency alarms, and basic medical kits before obtaining event permits, the report added.
The Special Adviser on Security urged strict adherence to the Public Order Act by all regulatory agencies during events.
As noted in the report, these efforts aim to create a comprehensive framework for organizing and managing large gatherings.
Dr. Comforter warned that the absence of such a framework has contributed to previous avoidable tragedies in the state.
Her report praised Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration for promptly addressing emergency situations and prioritizing citizens’ safety.
It also directed the Ministry of Women Affairs to create policies protecting vulnerable individuals at public events.
Furthermore, it urged event organizers to control access by preventing gatecrashers and uninvited individuals from compromising security.
Law enforcement agencies were tasked with enforcing the Public Order Act to maintain safety during public processions and gatherings.
Through this initiative, the House seeks to safeguard lives and foster a culture of responsibility during large social events.
