In the wake of several deadly stampedes during the distribution of palliatives and relief items across Nigeria, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has raised alarm about the dangers posed by unorganized charity events, urging urgent reform to prevent further tragedies.
This warning comes after multiple incidents, including a deadly stampede on December 18, 2024, at a children’s funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State, which claimed the lives of at least 35 children. The tragedy was followed by another deadly incident on December 21, 2024, at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, during the distribution of food to the elderly and vulnerable.
Ten lives were lost, and several others were injured. A similar stampede occurred in Okija, Anambra State, at a palliative distribution event organized by a philanthropist, leading to the death of three individuals, with many others critically injured and hospitalized.
In a statement signed by ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, the IGP emphasized the urgent need for better planning and organization at such events, particularly those involving vulnerable citizens. “This trend is worrisome and calls for urgent concerns to save the lives of citizens, especially the vulnerable youths and the elderly,” the IGP stated.
Egbetokun pointed out that the lack of structure in the distribution of palliatives has created chaos and unsafe conditions for the public, particularly in instances where long lines and unregulated crowds have led to dangerous stampedes. He noted that “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.”
The IGP has called for a collaborative effort between government officials, community leaders, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to establish a more organized framework for aid distribution. He also warned event organizers to work with security agencies, stating that negligence would not be tolerated under the law. “Groups and organizers of similar events must 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 IGP emphasized.
Furthermore, Egbetokun urged the public to exercise caution when attending such events, advising that their safety should always be a priority. “The general public who would want to benefit from such distributions should tread with caution, prioritizing their safety to avoid unforeseen calamities,” he added.
The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to supporting efforts that will create safer, more organized environments for palliative distributions, collaborating with stakeholders to prevent future tragedies and ensure smoother processes. The IGP has also directed the Commissioners of Police in the affected states to conduct thorough investigations into the incidents and take appropriate legal action.
Expressing sympathy for the victims, Egbetokun concluded by offering condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wishing the injured a swift recovery.
