Stampede deaths: IGP warns against unorganized distribution of palliatives
IGP Warns Against Unorganized Palliative Distribution Amid Stampede Fatalities
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a stern warning against the uncoordinated distribution of palliatives and relief items during the festive season to avoid tragic incidents.
The warning comes in response to recent stampedes in Oyo, Anambra, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), which resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries. The caution was conveyed in a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Police Force, Olumuyiwa Adejobi.
One of the tragic incidents occurred on Wednesday in Ibadan, where a stampede at a children’s funfair claimed the lives of at least 35 children and left many others critically injured.
Similarly, on Saturday, a stampede in the Okija community of Anambra State led to the death of no fewer than 20 residents during an event to distribute rice to the less privileged.
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In another incident, an unspecified number of people lost their lives during a stampede at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in the Maitama area of Abuja, where rice and other food items were being distributed.
The IGP highlighted the risks posed by poorly organized events, emphasizing that such gatherings, whether by groups, individuals, or NGOs, could result in stampedes and other dangers to public safety.
Egbetokun directed the commissioners of police in the affected states to conduct thorough investigations into the incidents to facilitate appropriate legal actions.
He also expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a swift recovery.
