The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has directed an investigation into the tragic stampedes during food distribution events in Abuja and Anambra State, which claimed at least 13 lives and left several others injured.
The incidents occurred at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, where ten individuals lost their lives, and in Okija, Anambra State, where three fatalities were recorded. Both events were aimed at providing relief to vulnerable and elderly citizens.
Describing negligence as a criminal offense, the IGP instructed the Commissioners of Police in the affected states to conduct thorough investigations.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Saturday, Nigeria Police Force spokesman Muyiwa Adejobi stated, “The IGP has ordered the Commissioners of the affected states to carry out thorough investigations into these ugly incidences for further legal actions.”
The IGP also urged government officials, organizations, and community leaders to collaborate on creating a more organized framework for distributing palliatives.
“Negligence by organizers of such events is criminal and will not be overlooked,” Adejobi said, citing Sections 196 of the Penal Code and 344 of the Criminal Code, Laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
National Reactions
The stampedes have sparked widespread reactions, with President Bola Tinubu canceling his official engagements in Lagos, including his attendance at the 2024 Lagos Boat Regatta, in honor of the victims.
“In a season of joy and celebration, we grieve with fellow citizens mourning the painful losses of their loved ones. Our prayers of divine comfort and healing are with them,” the president said in a statement through his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga.
Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, also expressed his condolences while attributing the incidents to systemic failures.
“These tragedies reflect the systemic failures that plague our society,” Obi wrote on X. “The desperate quest for survival in these harsh economic times has driven our people to extremes in their search for food, often at the cost of their lives.”
Both incidents have reignited calls for improved social safety nets and better coordination of aid distribution to prevent similar occurrences.
