A birthday party and book presentation organized in honour of Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, was on Monday called off as a result of the stampede that claimed the lives of several children in Ibadan.
The event which was organized in Abakiliki, Ebonyi State, by the National Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, South-East zone, Chief Ali Odefa, attracted dignitaries from different parts of the country.
However, the joyful mood in the hall turned into sadness when the tragic incident was announced to the cheering crowd waiting for the arrival of the Oyo State governor.
In an emotion laden voice, Odefa instructed that all the billboards erected in honour of Makinde be dismantled, as a sign of respect to the departed children.
Odefa, who is also the author of the book written in honour of Makinde, said: “My friend and governor of Oyo State has prepared to come here and be with us today. In fact, he sent an advance team two days ago. The advance team has been here, the Chief of Staff has been here two days ago.
“But when this incident happened, there’s no how a state will be mourning and crying while we are dancing and rejoicing.
“Some families, because of this incident, do not know the meaning of Christmas anymore.
“So, it is painful, it is sad, but that’s the reality.The leaders have met. If you look at this place, you see that this is a gathering of Igbo leaders, non-partisan. We are not talking about party A or party B. This is a collection of Igbo leaders here sitting.”
He also announced that the event has been shifted to another time.
The PDP chieftain further commiserated with the government and people of Oyo State, especially the families of the departed children and prayed for the repose of their souls.
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