As part of efforts to ensure public safety and guide against occurrence of stampede during philanthropic gestures by individuals and organisations in the state, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo state has issued series of directives outlining improved crowd control measures.
The governor’s directive which was contained in a statement signed by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, said clearance must be sought from security agencies and other relevant authorities while thorough risk assessments must also be conducted before any planned gatherings.
According to the statement, some factors are to be put into consideration before such gathering could be approved, saying such factors must include, expected attendance, location, and potential for unrest, while the venue must be well-equipped to ensure that such events do not turn tragic.
Ajulo emphasized that the guidelines prioritise public safety while respecting citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful assembly.
He said “The guidelines, documented in Directive No. 01-1224, are aimed at regulating public gatherings and ensuring the protection of lives and property during events.
“These directives are anchored in the powers vested in the Attorney General under Section 195 of the Constitution of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), Sections 62 and 95 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law of Ondo State 2015, and Sections 2 and 4 of the Nigeria Police Act 2020”
He stated that the directives include, “assessment of crowds which means law enforcement agencies are to conduct thorough risk assessments of any planned gatherings, while factors to consider include expected attendance, location, and potential for unrest.
“Notification Requirements entails that organizers of public events must notify local authorities prior to the event.
“Notifications should include details such as date, time, venue, and expected number of attendees.
“Deployment of Personnel: Adequate police and security personnel must be deployed to gather intelligence and maintain order before and during events. Crowd management teams will be responsible for monitoring the event and addressing any issues that arise.
“Communication Protocols: Establish clear communication channels between event organizers and law enforcement. Regular updates should be shared to ensure swift responses to any crowd-related incidents.
“Use of Technology: Utilize surveillance and monitoring technology to observe crowd dynamics in real-time. Drones and CCTV cameras may be employed where necessary to enhance security”
Other measures include, Public awareness campaigns: Conduct campaigns to educate the public on safety measures during gatherings. Promote peaceful assembly and discourage violence or unlawful behaviour.
“Emergency Response Plans: Develop and disseminate emergency response plans for potential incidents. All personnel must be trained on these protocols.
“Medical and Emergency Preparedness: Ensure a qualified medical team, emergency preparedness team, ambulances, and security personnel are present for events with over 300 participants, whether spiritual, physical, political, or social”
Organisers of such events are charged to “Position medical teams and security personnel strategically within and outside the venue.
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“They are also to provide essentials, provide accessible packs of drinking water for participants, ensure mobile toilets are available, with a sanitation team to maintain cleanliness.
“The venue must be accessible. Avoid venues with only one entrance or exit to facilitate smooth crowd movement”
Ajulo said “All actions taken must comply with all the laws in operations in Nigeria with full adherence and respect to the Constitutional rights of citizens to assemble peacefully
“Any violations of these directives may result in legal action against the organizers or participants”
Dr. Ajulo stated that the directives also call for enhanced collaboration between event organizers, law enforcement agencies, and local government authorities.
He stressed the importance of proactive measures, such as communication protocols and venue accessibility, to prevent incidents and ensure public safety.
The Chief Law Officer of the State reiterated that these measures are designed to protect lives and property, urging full compliance from all parties involved.
“These crowd control measures are a testament to Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to fostering a secure environment for public gatherings in Ondo State.
“Stakeholders are advised to familiarize themselves with the directives to avoid legal repercussions and contribute to a safer society,” Ajulo stated.
