PDP cancels birthday party for Makinde over death of 35 kids at Ibadan stampede
The Peoples Democratic Party has announced the cancellation of a planned birthday celebration for Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, following the tragic incident that claimed the lives of 35 children in Ibadan, the state’s capital.
The event, organised under the Ali and Onyinyechi Foundation by the PDP National Vice Chairman (South East), Chief Ali Odefa, was billed to be held at the Re-Meritona Hotel, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.
The decision was a mark of respect and sympathy for the victims of the deadly stampede at a children’s funfair in Ibadan on Wednesday, December 18, 2024.
According to the police, no fewer than 35 minors have been confirmed dead while six others were left critically injured during the children’s carnival held at Islamic High School in the Basorun area of Ibadan.
PDP expresses condolences to the victims
The chairman of the occasion, Senator Sam Egwu, while announcing the cancelation explained that the decision was made to honor the deceased and sympathise with their families.
“My friend, Governor Makinde, had prepared to be here with us today. In fact, he sent an advance team two days ago. However, given the tragic incident in Ibadan, it is inappropriate for a state in mourning to have its governor celebrating a birthday.
“Some families, due to this incident, no longer know the meaning of Christmas. They are grieving, and it would be wrong for us to be rejoicing while they mourn. This is a painful but necessary decision,” Egwu said.
He also reassured attendees that the event would be rescheduled for a later date, which would be communicated accordingly.
For his part, Odefa expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident in Ibadan and the subsequent cancellation of the celebration, noting that the occasion was also meant for the launching of a book about Governor Makinde, whom he described as a friend and leader.
“This incident hit close to home for me, as the location where it occurred is just seven minutes away from my house in Ibadan,” Odefa said.
The PDP chieftain also directed that all posters and billboards for the event be taken down.
Prof. Emmanuel Echiegu, who represented Makinde at the occasion, conveyed the Governor’s condolences to the families of the deceased and the people of Oyo State.
He also lauded Odefa for choosing Ebonyi State for the celebration and encouraged him to reschedule the event at a later date.
