The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has expressed concerns over the unorganised distribution of palliatives and relief items across Nigeria during the festive period.
In the past few days, a series of unfortunate incidents have highlighted the need for a more structured and secure approach to aid distribution.
On December 18, 2024, a stampede at a children’s funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State, claimed the lives of 35 children, leaving many others critically injured.
In another tragic event on December 21, 2024, 10 individuals lost their lives during a stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, Abuja, where food items were being distributed to the vulnerable and elderly. Several others sustained injuries.
Similarly, a palliative distribution event organised by philanthropist Obi Jackson in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, ended in chaos, leaving three individuals dead and many others injured.
Addressing journalists in Abuja on Saturday, the Force Spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, said the IG has ordered the Commissioners of Police in the affected states to investigate the matter for possible legal actions.
He said, “The IGP emphasised the dangers posed to public safety during these unorganized distributions and funfairs set up by groups, individuals and NGOs, including the potential for stampedes and other incidents that could endanger lives. The lack of a well-defined plan for distributing palliatives has resulted in chaos, leading to long lines and unnecessary confrontations among citizens seeking assistance.
“In light of these developments, the IGP has called on government officials, community leaders, and non-governmental organizations to work collaboratively towards establishing a comprehensive and organised framework for distributing palliatives.
“The IGP has ordered the commissioners of the affected states to carry out thorough investigations into these ugly incidents for further legal actions. The Inspector-General of Police, therefore, sympathizes with the bereaved families and wishes those injured a quick recovery.”
He stated that the organisers of this charity are liable for criminal offences, citing relevant provisions in Nigeria’s Penal and Criminal Codes.
Adejobi said, “The IGP has hereby warned groups and organisers of similar events to ensure the involvement of security agencies as negligence on their part is criminal and would not be overlooked, as provided for in Sec. 196 of the Penal Code and Sec. 344 of the Criminal Code, Laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”