Tragic Stampedes Spur IGP’s Warning: Unorganized Palliative Distribution Banned After 65 Deaths

By Achimi Muktar

The festive season took a tragic turn as stampedes during palliative distributions in Nigeria claimed the lives of at least 65 people, prompting Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun to issue a stern warning against unorganized aid distribution and unauthorized funfairs.

The police boss, alarmed by the incidents in Ibadan, Abuja, and Okija, highlighted the urgent need for a more structured approach to prevent further loss of life, particularly among vulnerable groups such as children, youths, and the elderly.

A Series of Tragedies

The devastating chain of events began on December 18, 2024, when a children’s funfair in Ibadan turned deadly. At least 35 children lost their lives, and many others were critically injured in the chaos.

Just days later, on December 21, another stampede erupted at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, during a food distribution event for the elderly and vulnerable. This incident claimed 10 lives and left several injured.

The tragedy continued in Okija, Anambra State, where a philanthropist’s palliative distribution led to the deaths of three people, with many more hospitalized for injuries sustained in the scramble.

IGP Egbetokun’s Directive

Reacting to these incidents, the IGP, through a statement issued by Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, condemned the lack of planning and security at such events.

“This worrisome trend calls for urgent measures to protect lives, particularly during unstructured aid distributions and festive activities,” the statement read.

Egbetokun emphasized the dangers of uncoordinated palliative distributions, which often result in overcrowding, chaos, and deadly confrontations.

A Call for Collaboration

The IGP urged government officials, community leaders, and non-governmental organizations to collaborate with security agencies to establish a safe and organized framework for delivering aid.

“Negligence in organizing these events is a criminal act under Section 196 of the Penal Code and Section 344 of the Criminal Code,” Egbetokun warned, adding that all future distributions must involve security agencies to ensure public safety.

Safety First

The public was also advised to approach such events with caution, prioritizing their safety over the scramble for relief items.

The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to creating a safer environment for aid distribution, promising to work with stakeholders to prevent further tragedies.

Investigations Underway

The IGP has directed commissioners in affected states to conduct thorough investigations into the stampedes, vowing legal actions against those found culpable.

“We sympathize with the bereaved families and wish the injured a speedy recovery,” the IGP stated, expressing condolences for the tragic loss of life.

A Stark Warning for the Future

As the festive season continues, Egbetokun’s directive serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of poor planning. The police force’s resolve to enforce order aims to prevent a repeat of these heartbreaking events, ensuring that future aid distributions are a source of hope rather than tragedy.