The Lagos State Government has cautioned organisers of public events to prioritise safety measures to avoid preventable tragedies.
This directive comes in response to recent unfortunate incidents across the country and within Lagos, where lapses in planning led to accidents at public gatherings.
Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, speaking at a press briefing, emphasised that any organiser failing to adhere to safety protocols would face legal consequences. He reiterated Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu‘s commitment to ensuring that such incidents do not occur in Lagos, particularly during the festive season.
Organisers expecting over 250 participants at their events have been instructed to register with the Lagos State Safety Commission.
This measure is aimed at ensuring that necessary precautions are in place to safeguard attendees. Emergency response agencies have also been mobilised to handle potential risks during this period.
Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Mr Gbenga Oyerinde, urged residents to report any activities or situations that could endanger lives. He encouraged the public to use the state’s toll-free lines to alert authorities about possible threats, reinforcing the government’s seriousness about public safety.
The Director of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Mrs Margaret Adeseye, advised residents to remain cautious, especially during the harmattan season. She warned against storing flammable items and discouraged the use of fireworks without proper safety measures.
Adeseye revealed that 1,749 fire incidents had been recorded in 2024, with 75 per cent caused by carelessness and human error.
The state government reaffirmed its commitment to preventing accidents and ensuring public safety. It called on all event organisers and residents to cooperate with safety guidelines to make Lagos safer for everyone during the festive season and beyond.
