The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi has warned that the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun’s recent directive on palliatives distribution exercises could discourage charity to the poor during the festive period.
Obi said this in a statement posted on X on Monday.
In a Saturday statement, Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi quoted IGP Egbetokun as saying that organisers of charity events are liable for criminal offences, citing relevant provisions in Nigeria’s Penal and Criminal Codes, should tragedy strike during the distribution of palliatives and relief materials.
The police spokesman’s statement comes after 67 people, including 35 children, died in stampedes during funfair and food distribution events in Oyo State, Anambra State and Abuja in the past week.
“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,” Adejobi said.
Reacting, Obi described the police boss’ directive as disturbing as it is open to abuse.
Obi warned that it could discourage well-meaning Nigerians from helping the needy.
The former Anambra governor 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 organisation and more attention to public safety, it is important to clarify that acts of goodwill should not be hindered by excessive bureaucracy.”
Obi explained that rather than requiring people to seek permission to assist those in need, they should be encouraged to find better, more organised ways to offer such help.
He said 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 the government’s insensitive policies.
“I urge the IGP to immediately review this directive and ensure that the police foster collaboration and support, not division and discouragement, in our shared quest to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians,” Obi noted.
The Sun Nigeria
