The Presidential Candidate for Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi has appealed to the federal government not to create obstacles for those filling the gaps created by harsh policies.
Obi who stated this on Monday via his X handle, described the latest directive by Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun on the distribution of palliatives to the less privileged as disturbing.
TheFactDaily reports that not fewer that 57 Nigerians lost their lives in separate stampedes during the distribution of food and palliative items in Oyo, Anambra, and Abuja.
Consequently, the IGP placed a ban on unauthorized distribution of palliatives and associated events across Nigeria, citing concerns over public safety.
Reacting to this directive, the former Anambra State governor said, “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”, he said.
“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 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,” he said.
