Stampedes: Peter Obi condemns IGP’s palliative restrictions, warns they could discourage charity

• Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate for the 2023 general elections, has expressed his opposition to restrictions on the distribution of palliatives.

• The restriction is in response to recent tragedies in palliative distribution and charity events across the country.

• The Inspector General of Police has requested charity organizers to ensure strict adherence to crowd and safety management protocols following the recent stampedes in Anambra and FCT.

Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party (LP) for the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has criticized the limitations imposed on the distribution of palliatives.

These restrictions have emerged following recent tragedies associated with the distribution of aid and charitable events across various regions of the country in the preceding weeks.

It is important to note that numerous individuals lost their lives and many others sustained injuries during several stampedes in Anambra and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) during a food distribution event on Saturday. This situation led the Inspector General of Police to advise organizers of similar charitable initiatives to collaborate with security agencies and to ensure strict compliance with crowd control and safety management protocols.

However, Obi expressed his disagreement with this directive in a statement released on Monday, arguing that it may deter Nigerians and organizations from engaging in charitable activities.

He characterized the situation as “disturbing,” acknowledging that while the directive is a “timely response,” it remains susceptible to misuse.

“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.

“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,” he stated.