•Ibadan stampede that killed many people on Wednesday
Peter Obi says the restriction on the distribution of palliatives will discourage Nigerians and organisations from carrying out their charity work.
Scores of persons died and several others were wounded in multiple stampedes in Anambra and the FCT during the distribution of food items on Saturday, prompting the Inspector General of Police to ask organisers of similar charity works to carry security agencies along and ensure strict adherence to crowd and safety management protocols, reports Channels TV.
But Obi, who flew the Labour Party (LP) flag in the 2023 presidential election, believes the IGP’s directive will restrict people from undertaking charitable works.
Describing the development as “disturbing,” Obi said though the directive is “a timely response,” it is open to abuse.
“It is capable of discouraging citizens from helping the hungry and distressed among us,” he wrote in a post on his X handle on Monday morning, about two days after the stampedes which threw the nation into mourning.
“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.”
‘Promoting Coordination, Not Imposing Barriers’
He said, “Rather than requiring people to seek permission to assist those in need, we should encourage them to find better, more organized ways to offer such help.
“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.”
Peter Obi also called on the federal government to address the root causes of the hardship by “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 fosters collaboration and support, not division and discouragement, in our shared quest to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians,” the former Anambra State governor said.
