Following reports that the proprietor of popular Ibadan-based radio, Agidigbo 88.7 FM, Hamzat Oriyomi was arrested by the Oyo State Government as one of the organizers of the children carnival n Ibadan where many children died and several others injured, management of the radio station has clarified its role in the event. [READ HERE]
A statement signed by Olayinka AbdulWahab, Agidigbo 88.7 FM’s Director of Programmes, absolved the station as playing any role in the organization of the ill-fated juvenile carnival. AbdulWahab who neither confirmed nor dened the arrest of Hamzat, said the station only advertised the event for the organizers, – WINGS foundation, as a media establishment.
“…the management wishes to state that Agidigbo FM is not the organizer of the event but one of the media outfits used to promote the event.
“Upon receiving the notice that a mammoth crowd had assembled before 5 am this morning at the venue, Agidigbo FM, the people’s voice, used all media strategies to sensitize the populace with jingles and Public service Announcements, from that time that people should stop going to the venue of the funfair.” Agidigbo’s Programe’s Director said on behalf of the station’s management.
According to the Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, Organizers have been arrested while investigation continues: “While investigations are ongoing, the primary organisers of the event that led to this stampede have been taken into custody.
“I want to reassure our people that anyone directly or remotely involved in this disaster will be held accountable. Please remain calm as the security agencies investigate this unfortunate incident.” Makinde said
But Agidigbo FM, who has dissociated itself from the event, insists that the Organizers carried out due diligence to prevent the calamity.
AbdulWahab emphasised that “The organizers of the event also did all they can to ensure that the tragedy was curtailed by deploying security apparatus, medical officials, and other relevant agencies to come to the aid of those affected by this tragic event.
“This a very sad day for us all, however, we call on the general public to shun the spread of fake news and contact Agidigbo FM, for more information.
“This is not the time to spread misinformation, the Management of Agidigbo FM, implore the general public to continue to pray for the speedy recovery of those in various hospitals and sympathise with the family of those who lost their lives.” He said
