Oyo Gov’t Warns Against Unregulated Valentine’s Day Celebrations

Oyo State Government has warned corporate bodies, event planners, and anyone planning lavish celebrations in respect of St. Valentine’s Day to ensure they adhere to the state rules and regulations.

The warning followed the December 2024 children funfair stampede where a total of 35 students were confirmed killed at the Islamic High School, Bashorun in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

Commissioner for Information in the state, Prince Dotun Oyelade, on Tuesday noted that many broadcast stations have started airing adverts and promotions inviting people to celebrate St. Valentine’s Day at various venues.

Oyelade emphasised that all stakeholders planning such events must actively involve security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Amotekun Corps, Operation Burst, and other security arms, to ensure proper logistics for seamless gatherings.

He also insisted that there must be a consensus between the planners, security and medical personnel on the choice of venues.

Additionally, Oyelade said the state’s Ministry of Health and the Hospitals Management Board must be involved along with private hospitals, where necessary to ensure adequate medical support at such gatherings.

The Commissioner warned that anyone who flouts the directive will face the full wrath of the law.

He reminded the public that the state is still mourning the needless death of 35 children at the 18th of December, 2024 gathering.