Former Anambra State Governor Mr Peter Obi has faulted the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, for imposing restrictions on the distribution of palliatives to the less- privileged.
The New Daily Prime earlier reported that Egbetokun directed palliative distribution organisers to involve security agencies and strictly adhere to crowd and safety management protocols.
This directive came in response to multiple stampedes during the distribution of food items in Oyo, Anambra, and Abuja, which led to several deaths and injuries.
In a statement shared on his X page today, Obi expressed concern over the directive, describing it as disturbing despite being a timely response to recent tragedies across the country.
The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), further noted that while the IG’s reaction acknowledges the challenges posed by the prevailing economic hardship, the directive is prone to abuse.
Obi cautioned that Egbetokun’s actions could discourage citizens from assisting the hungry and distressed Nigerians.
“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.
“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”, Obi added.
Also, Obi stressed that this was not the time to suppress the spirit of compassion and generosity among Nigerians.
He stressed that the government must take more decisive action to address the root causes of this hardship, offering lasting solutions instead of hindering those who are stepping in to bridge the gaps caused by its insensitive policies.
“Instead, let us channel these efforts constructively, ensuring that help reaches the most vulnerable safely and efficiently.
