Stampede: Your directive capable of discouraging citizens helping hungry Nigerians – Peter Obi tells IGP

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP, Mr. Peter Obi, has picked holes with the directive of the Inspector General of Police, IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, on the distribution of palliatives to the less privileged.

Obi said that the directive is capable of discouraging citizens from helping the hungry and distressed among the people.

Newspot reported that Egbetokun issued the warning while reacting to the recent stampedes in Oyo, Anambra, and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.

Following the development, the IGP warned against the unauthorized distribution of palliatives and funfairs across the country.

He also ordered groups and organizers of similar events to ensure the involvement of security agencies.

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However, Obi said although the directive is a timely response to the series of tragedies recorded across the country recently, it’s open to abuse.

The former Anambra state Governor, in a post on his X handle on Monday, noted that 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.

He said: “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.

“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.

“It is capable of discouraging citizens from helping the hungry and distressed among us.

“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.

“Rather than requiring people to seek permission to assist those in need, we should encourage them to find better, more organized ways to offer such help. 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.

“This is not the time to stifle the spirit of compassion and generosity among our people. Instead, let us channel these efforts constructively, ensuring that help reaches the most vulnerable safely and efficiently.

“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. -PO”