Obi to IGP: Restricting palliative distribution over stampedes will stifle generosity

Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the last general election, says the directive from the police restricting distribution of palliatives will stifle generosity and goodwill.

Last week, more than 67 persons were killed in stampedes during palliative distribution in Oyo, Anambra and the federal capital territory (FCT).

On Saturday, the police asked charity organisations and groups to involve security agencies in palliative sharing, as negligence on their part would no longer be tolerated. 

In a post on X on Monday, Obi said the police should encourage people to find an organised way of helping the less privileged. 

“The latest directive of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) placing some restrictions on the distribution of palliatives to the less privileged in our midst is disturbing,” Obi said.

“Even though the directive is a timely response to the series of tragedies recorded across the country recently, and the IG’s honest reaction to the challenges of the prevailing economic hardship, it’s open to abuse.”

Obi urged Kayode Egbetokun, inspector general of police (IGP), to immediately review the directive to ensure collaboration while trying to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians. 

He also called on the federal government to address the root cause of the hardship in the country and provide lasting solutions.

“While I understand the need for better organization and more attention to public safety, it is important to clarify that acts of goodwill should not be hindered by excessive bureaucracy,” he added.

“The focus should be on promoting coordination, not imposing barriers that could deter much-needed acts of kindness in a time of widespread hunger, pain, and anger.

“The government must also do more to address the root causes of this hardship, providing lasting solutions rather than creating obstacles for those stepping in to fill the gaps created by government’s insensitive policies.

“I urge the IGP to immediately review this directive and ensure that the police fosters collaboration and support, not division and discouragement, in our shared quest to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.”