The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, issued a warning on Saturday regarding the unauthorised distribution of palliatives and the organisation of funfairs across the country.
He expressed deep concern over the uncoordinated distribution of relief items during this festive season, describing the trend as alarming.
Egbetokun emphasised the need for urgent measures to protect lives, particularly those of vulnerable groups such as youths and the elderly.
In the early hours of today, the 21st of December 2024, another tragedy struck at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, in a similar stampede that occurred during the distribution of food items to vulnerable and elderly individuals
The unfortunate incident led to the deaths of 10 individuals, leaving many others injured.
A similar incident also occurred at Okija, Ihiala Local Government, Anambra State, at a palliative distribution set up by a philanthropist identified as Obi Jackson, which resulted in the deaths of several individuals
The IGP highlighted the risks to public safety associated with the uncoordinated distribution of palliatives and the funfairs organized by various groups, individuals, and NGOs, warning of potential stampedes and other life-threatening incidents.
Addressing reporters in Abuja, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, noted that the absence of a structured plan for distributing palliatives has led to disorder, with long queues and avoidable conflicts among citizens seeking aid.
He said: “In light of these developments, the IGP has called on government officials, community leaders, and non-governmental organisations to work collaboratively towards establishing a comprehensive and organised framework for distributing palliatives.
“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 will 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. In addition, the IGP has encouraged the general public who wish to benefit from such distributions to tread cautiously, prioritising their safety to avoid unforeseen calamities.
“The Nigeria Police Force reiterates its commitment to supporting efforts to create a safer and more structured environment for aid distribution in our communities. Collaborating with relevant stakeholders, the Force aims to prevent future tragedies and ensure such processes are seamless.
“The IGP has ordered the Commissioners of the affected states to carry out thorough investigations into these ugly incidents for further legal action. The Inspector-General of Police therefore sympathises with the bereaved families and wishes those injured a quick recovery.
