BENIN CITY, EDO STATE – Political stakeholders and opposition groups in Edo State have engaged in a heated exchange over a reported stampede and alleged use of pepper spray during a Children’s Day event in the state.
The controversy followed claims that students were affected during the commemoration activities, prompting criticism from opposition voices and civil society groups who are calling for accountability and a public explanation from the state government.
The Coalition of Registered Political Parties (CRPP) has demanded a formal apology from Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, alleging that security measures at the event may have contributed to panic and disruption among participating students.
According to the coalition, the reported use of pepper spray during crowd control measures raises serious concerns about the safety protocols applied during events involving children.
The group further argued that such incidents, if confirmed, are unacceptable in a setting meant to celebrate and protect children, urging the government to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Opposition representatives in the state have also criticized the handling of the event, describing the situation as avoidable and calling for greater attention to crowd management and safety standards during public gatherings.
However, government sources maintain that security personnel were deployed to ensure order at the event and that any crowd-control measures taken were aimed at preventing disorder rather than causing harm.
Authorities have not issued a detailed official report confirming the extent of injuries or the exact cause of the reported stampede at the time of filing this report.
The Edo State Government, Monday Okpebholo, is yet to release a comprehensive statement addressing the allegations raised by opposition groups and civil society organisations.
Security analysts note that large public events, particularly those involving children, require strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent panic situations and ensure orderly conduct.
Civil society organisations have also called for an independent investigation to establish the facts and determine whether appropriate safety standards were observed during the event.
The incident has sparked broader debate within the state’s political space, with stakeholders exchanging accusations over responsibility and governance standards.
Education advocates stress the importance of safeguarding children during public celebrations, warning that lapses in crowd management can lead to avoidable injuries and public outrage.
As discussions continue, attention is now focused on whether the state government will launch an inquiry or provide further clarification regarding the circumstances surrounding the Children’s Day event.
The situation remains a subject of ongoing political tension in Edo State, with calls for transparency and accountability growing from various quarters.
