By CHARLES IWUOHA

The birthday party and book presentation in honour of the governor of Oyo state, Engr Seyi Makinde, has been cancelled due to the tragedy that claimed lives of children at Christmas Party in Oyo state.

The event which was organised on Thursday by the expelled National Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Southeast zone, Chief Ali Odefa in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi state capital, attracted dignitaries across the country.

However, there was moment of grief in the hall when the tragedy was disclosed to the cheering crowds waiting for the arrival of Oyo State Governor.

In his motion laden speech, Odefa ordered that all the billboards of Makinde be dismantled in all the places to pay last 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. These are a collection of Igbo leaders here sitting?.

He also announced that the event has been shifted to another time.

The PDP boss further commiserated with the government and people of Oyo state especially with the families of the departed children and prayed for the repose of their souls.