Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has expressed concerns over the disorganized distribution of palliatives and relief items during the festive period. This comes after a series of tragic incidents, including stampedes, resulted in the loss of lives and injuries across the country.
A stampede at a children’s funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State, on December 18, 2024, claimed the lives of 35 children, leaving many others critically injured. Another tragic event occurred on December 21, 2024, at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, Abuja, where 10 individuals lost their lives during a stampede while food items were being distributed.
Similarly, a palliative distribution event in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, ended in chaos, leaving three individuals dead and many others injured.
The IGP has ordered the Commissioners of Police in the affected states to investigate the matter for possible legal actions. He emphasized the dangers posed to public safety during these unorganized distributions and funfairs, citing the potential for stampedes and other incidents that could endanger lives.
Mr. Egbetokun has called on government officials, community leaders, and non-governmental organizations to work collaboratively towards establishing a comprehensive and organized framework for distributing palliatives. He warned groups and organizers of similar events to ensure the involvement of security agencies, stating that negligence on their part is criminal and would not be overlooked
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