The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has directed a thorough investigation into the tragic stampedes that occurred during food distribution events in Abuja and Anambra State, resulting in multiple casualties.
At least 10 people lost their lives and many others sustained injuries at a food distribution drive organized for vulnerable and elderly individuals at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja. Similarly, in Okija, Anambra State, three people were confirmed dead, and several others were injured during a philanthropic event.
Negligence Declared Criminal
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Saturday, Nigeria Police Force (NPF) spokesman Muyiwa Adejobi relayed the IGP’s stance, emphasizing that negligence by organizers in such events is criminal.
“The IGP has mandated Commissioners of Police in the affected states to carry out thorough investigations into these unfortunate incidents to determine culpability and recommend further legal actions,” Adejobi stated.
Call for Structured Palliative Distribution
The IGP urged government officials, community leaders, non-governmental organizations, and private individuals to collaborate in establishing an organized framework for palliative distribution to prevent future tragedies.
Organizers of similar events were also warned to involve security agencies, as negligence leading to loss of life or injuries could lead to prosecution under Section 196 of the Penal Code and Section 344 of the Criminal Code, Laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Egbetokun’s directive signals a commitment to ensuring accountability and preventing a recurrence of such deadly incidents during humanitarian efforts.
