The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun has ordered investigations into the distribution of palliatives and relief items that have led to multiple deaths in some parts of the country.
In a related development, 10 people were reportedly dead and many others injured during the distribution of food items to the vulnerable and elderly people at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, Abuja, on Saturday.
Similarly, the distribution of palliative organised by a philanthropist, Obi Jackson in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area (LGA) of Anambra State led to the death of several individuals, while those injured are receiving treatment at various hospitals.
Reacting to the incidents in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi on Saturday, IGP Egbetokun described the trend as ‘worrisome’ and called for urgent concerns to save the lives of citizens, especially the vulnerable youths and the elderly.
He expressed concerns about the unorganised distribution of palliatives and relief items in the country during the festive period, noting that there is urgent need for a more structured and effective approach to delivering aid to vulnerable communities and members of the public in general.
“The IGP emphasized 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 organized framework for distributing palliatives. The IGP has hereby warned groups and organizers 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,” the statement partly read.
The police boss encouraged the general public, who would want to benefit from such distributions to tread with caution, prioritising their safety, to avoid unforeseen calamities.
The security agency reiterated its commitment to supporting efforts aimed at creating a safer and more structured environment for aid distribution in the 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 incidences for further legal actions. The Inspector-General of Police therefore sympathizes with the bereaved families and wishes those injured quick recovery,” the statement added.
