By HeapNews
In response to a surge in tragic incidents across Nigeria, the Ondo State government has introduced a comprehensive set of crowd control measures aimed at ensuring safety during public gatherings. The guidelines, announced by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, OON, SAN, are outlined in Directive No. 01-1224 and designed to protect lives and property while upholding citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly.
“These directives are not just about regulation; they are about saving lives,” Dr. Ajulo emphasized. “We are committed to creating a secure environment where people can gather without fear of harm or chaos.”
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The directive, backed by the Constitution of Nigeria and other legal frameworks, introduces several mandatory measures for event organizers, law enforcement, and local authorities.
- Risk Assessments: Law enforcement agencies must evaluate the potential risks of gatherings, considering expected attendance, location, and likelihood of unrest.
- Notification Requirements: Event organizers are required to notify local authorities of gatherings, providing detailed information such as venue, date, and expected turnout.
- Deployment of Personnel: Adequate police and security personnel must be present to monitor events and address emergencies.
- Use of Technology: Surveillance tools like CCTV and drones may be deployed to monitor crowds in real time.
- Emergency Preparedness: Events with over 300 participants must include medical teams, ambulances, and strategic placement of security personnel.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Initiatives will be launched to educate the public about safety measures and the importance of peaceful assembly.
- Venue Accessibility: Only venues with multiple access points will be approved to ensure smooth crowd movement.
Dr. Ajulo also stressed the importance of essentials such as mobile toilets, drinking water, and sanitation teams at events. “We are taking a holistic approach to crowd management, addressing both security and the well-being of attendees,” he said.
Enforcement and Compliance
The Attorney General warned that violations of the directives would attract legal consequences for both organizers and participants.
“Stakeholders must familiarize themselves with these measures. Non-compliance will not be tolerated, as public safety is non-negotiable,” Dr. Ajulo stated.
Collaboration with Stakeholders
Dr. Ajulo highlighted the need for collaboration between event organizers, law enforcement agencies, and local governments to ensure the successful implementation of the directives. He noted that clear communication protocols between organizers and authorities are critical to preventing incidents.
“These measures reflect Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to a safer and more orderly society,” he added.
Public Reaction
Many Ondo State residents have welcomed the initiative, seeing it as a step toward preventing tragedies at public events. “This is a much-needed intervention,” said Olumide Adebayo, a community leader in Akure. “We’ve seen too many avoidable incidents, and these measures could make a real difference.”
As the directives take effect, the Ondo State government has called on all stakeholders to support the effort to create a secure environment for public gatherings. “Safety is a collective responsibility,” Dr. Ajulo concluded. “Let us work together to make Ondo State a model for public order and security.”