By Badamasi Bello, Jadetimes Staff
B. Bello is a Jadetimes news reporter covering African News
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has since ordered an investigation into the stampedes at Abuja and Anambra State during the food distribution events.
The one in Abuja happened at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama; it killed at least ten persons and left many others with injuries. Meanwhile, three people died and many others were injured in Okija, Anambra State, during a philanthropic food distribution drive.
Authorities have appealed for calm, ensuring that the injured were receiving medical attention. The IGP said the negligence on the part of the organizers was criminal and that it would not be taken lightly.
During a press briefing in Abuja, Force Public Relations Officer, Nigeria Police Force, Muyiwa Adejobi stated that the IGP had instructed Commissioners of Police in the affected states to independently conduct thorough investigations into the incidents with a view to addressing the situations appropriately.
The IGP equally directed the Commissioners of Police in the affected states to give the incidents thorough investigations to ensure the perpetrators are brought to book," Adejobi said.
He also called upon government functionaries, traditional rulers, communities, non-governmental organizations, and individuals to work together in establishing an orderly system for the distribution of relief materials.
The IGP again warned the organizers of events to always involve the security agencies in such activities, quoting provisions in the Penal and Criminal Codes that declare negligence a criminal act.
Meanwhile, president Bola Tinubu, has called off all official engagements in Lagos State, including his scheduled attendance at the 2024 Lagos Boat Regatta, as a mark of respect for the dead.
Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga conveyed the president's condolences thus: "In this season of celebration, we mourn with those grieving the loss of their loved ones. Our prayers for divine comfort and healing are with them.
The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, also reacted, blaming the incidents on systemic failures in society. While commending the organizers for making efforts toward ensuring that the needy were supported, Obi pointed out the dire economic conditions that drive people to such desperate measures.
These tragedies represent massive systemic failures in our society. The harsh economic situation has driven our people to desperation that often involves the loss of several lives in the search for survival," Obi tweeted.
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