By Kolawole Ojebisi
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has picked holes in the recent directive by the Inspector General of Police imposing restrictions on the distribution of palliatives to the underprivileged in the country.
The Chief Police Officer issued the directive in the wake of multiple stampedes that happened in Oyo, Anambra and Abuja during palliative distribution within a space of three days.
At least a total of 67 persons lost their lives during the stampedes.
But reacting to the tragic developments on Saturday, the police asked charity organisations and groups to involve security agencies in palliative sharing, as negligence on their part would no longer be tolerated.
However, Obi described the directive as “disturbing”.
He expressed his opinion in a statement on X.com (formerly Twitter) on Monday.
He said although the directive was aimed at addressing safety concerns following recent tragic incidents linked to palliative distribution, it could discourage acts of goodwill and worsen the suffering of vulnerable Nigerians.
He wrote, “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 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 emphasized the importance of fostering compassion and generosity during these trying times, urging the government to prioritise addressing the root causes of economic hardship rather than creating obstacles for those stepping in to help.
“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 fosters collaboration and support, not division and discouragement, in our shared quest to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.”
