The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has ordered police commissioners to investigate circumstances that led to the death of many during Saturday’s rice-sharing events in Abuja and Anambra State.
At least 10 people died in a stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama on Saturday, following a similar incident that took place during the delivery of food items by the ObiJackson Foundation in Okija, Ihiala Local Government, Anambra State.
In a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Adejobi Muyiwa, the IGP called for measures to protect citizens and cautioned public event organizers against negligence.
Saturday’s events came after the incident in Ibadan, Oyo State, where a stampede during a Christmas fun fair killed at least 35 children and left others injured.
Quoting Muyiwa, “the IGP emphasized the dangers posed to public safety during these unorganized distributions and funfairs set up by groups, individuals and NGOs, including the potential for stampedes and other incidents that could endanger lives.
“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.
“In light of these developments, the IGP has called on government officials, community leaders, and non-governmental organizations to work collaboratively towards establishing a comprehensive and organized framework for distributing palliatives.
“The IGP has hereby warned groups and organizers of similar events to 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.
“In addition, the IGP has encouraged the general public who would want to benefit from such distributions to tread with caution, prioritizing their safety, to avoid unforeseen calamities.
“The Nigeria Police Force reiterates its commitment to supporting efforts aimed at creating a safer and more structured environment for aid distribution in our communities.
“Collaborating with relevant stakeholders, the Force aims to prevent future tragedies and ensure such processes are seamless.
“The Inspector-General of Police therefore sympathizes with the bereaved families and wishes those injured quick recovery.”