The presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, has condemned the ban imposed by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, on distribution of palliatives to the poor, except with the approval of the police.
The ban came as a fallout of recent stampedes across the country from events organised to distribute economic relief items to the needy.
Obi, writing on his X handle, described the move by the IGP as a timely response, but a disturbing development in the light of the state of the nation. He said it was an unnecessary bureaucracy prone to abuse.
He stated, “The latest directive of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) placing some restrictions on the distribution of palliatives to the less privileged in our midst is disturbing.
“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 organisation 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 organised ways to offer such help.”
Obi said, “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.
“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.”
Obi also urged the federal government to address the root cause of hardship through people-friendly policies, instead of erecting barriers that isolate people from help.
He said, “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 foster collaboration and support, not division and discouragement, in our shared quest to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.”