By Ayomide Otitoju
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed condolences to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and the people of Oyo State following the tragic stampede at a children’s carnival at Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, which claimed 35 lives.
In a condolence letter titled “Letter of Condolence – Christmas Stampede Tragedy”, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the incident as devastating and extended his sympathies to the families of the victims.
“It is with profound sorrow that I write to express my heartfelt condolences to you, the government, and the people of Oyo State over the tragic loss of 35 young lives during the Christmas funfair stampede on December 18, 2024,” Sanwo-Olu wrote.
He lamented the scale of the tragedy, particularly given the innocence of the young victims who had gathered for joy and celebration.
“On behalf of the government and people of Lagos State, I extend our deepest sympathies to all those grieving. We share in your sorrow and stand with you during this difficult time,” the governor added, offering prayers for the swift recovery of the injured.
US Congress Averts Government Shutdown, Extends Funding Through March
The US Congress narrowly avoided a government shutdown early Saturday, passing a funding bill just minutes after the midnight deadline. The package, which extends federal agency operations through March 14, was fast-tracked in the Senate after tense negotiations.
“This bipartisan approach is a good outcome for America and the American people,” said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, praising the last-minute compromise.
The bill, which includes $110 billion for disaster relief and farmer aid, was passed in the Senate shortly after receiving House approval earlier in the day. However, the process was fraught with political drama, much of it fueled by President-elect Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk, who pressured Republicans to abandon a previously negotiated deal.
Avoiding the Shutdown’s Fallout
Had the bill failed, up to 875,000 federal workers would have faced furloughs, with another 1.4 million working without pay. National parks and monuments would likely have closed, disrupting holiday travel plans for millions.
The new funding agreement excluded a two-year suspension of the debt ceiling, a point of contention pushed by Trump. Despite Trump’s strong influence, the passage of the bill without his demands marked a notable limit to his sway over Republicans.
Musk’s Growing Influence Sparks Criticism
Elon Musk, whose social media posts against the original funding agreement drew scrutiny, faced criticism from both parties. Georgia Republican Rich McCormick questioned Musk’s outsized influence, saying, “Last time I checked, Elon Musk doesn’t have a vote in Congress.”
Democrats also raised concerns about an unelected individual wielding such power in policymaking.
Despite the turmoil, House Speaker Mike Johnson framed the outcome positively, emphasizing January’s upcoming Republican majority. “Things are going to be very different around here when President Trump returns to the White House,” he said.
With the funding crisis temporarily resolved, lawmakers now turn their focus to long-term budget negotiations in the new year.