Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential contender, has criticized an Inspector General of Police (IGP) decision that limits the delivery of palliatives in Nigeria.
The action is in reaction to recent palliative handouts in Oyo, Anambra, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) that resulted in fatal stampedes that killed multiple Nigerians.
Obi admitted that the edict was a response to these tragedies and the nation’s economic difficulties in a statement posted on his X, but he contended that it may erode Nigerians’ sense of charity and kindness.
He cautioned that the limitations would deter people from giving the hungry and in need of assistance.
Although the directive’s goal is clear, Obi stated that it runs the risk of suppressing deeds of kindness.
“We should concentrate on improving coordination and motivating Nigerians to help their fellow citizens in planned, secure ways rather than enforcing needless bureaucracy.”
Mr. Obi also urged IGP Egbetokun to reexamine the limitations and charged the Tinubu-led government with tackling the country’s widespread poverty and starvation.
Mr. Obi suggested that the government should also do more to address the underlying causes of this hardship, offering long-term solutions rather than creating barriers for those filling the gaps left by the government’s insensitive policies.
I implore the IGP to review this directive right away and make sure that the police promote cooperation and support rather than discord and discouragement in our common endeavor to lessen Nigerians’ suffering.