The Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, has raised concerns over the chaotic distribution of palliatives and relief items during the festive season, which has led to multiple tragic incidents in various parts of Nigeria.
In recent days, unplanned distribution events have resulted in deadly stampedes. On December 18, 2024, a children’s funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State, turned tragic when a stampede claimed the lives of 35 children and left many others critically injured.
Similarly, on December 21, 2024, a stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, caused by the distribution of food items, resulted in the deaths of 10 people, mostly vulnerable and elderly individuals, while several others sustained injuries.
Another event in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, also ended in chaos. A palliative distribution organized by philanthropist Obi Jackson led to the death of three individuals, with many others injured.
Speaking to reporters in Abuja, the Force Spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, revealed that the IGP has directed the Commissioners of Police in the affected states to thoroughly investigate these incidents. Legal actions may be taken against event organisers who failed to ensure proper safety measures.
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.”
