Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has condemned the ban imposed by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, on distributing palliatives to the poor following recent stampedes across the country.

Vanguard reports that 67 people, including 35 children, died in stampedes during funfair and food distribution events in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital; Okija, Anambra State; and Abuja.

In the wake of these tragic incidents, the IGP, through a statement by police spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi, warned event organizers to involve security agencies or face legal consequences.

In a statement on X on Monday, Obi said the restriction would discourage philanthropists from helping vulnerable citizens, describing it as unnecessary bureaucracy for the IGP to require approval before assisting the needy.

Obi called the development disturbing, noting that while the directive is a timely response, it is prone to abuse.

He wrote, “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 organization 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 organized ways to offer such help. 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 causes of hardship by offering lasting solutions rather than creating barriers for those stepping in to fill the gaps left by government policies.

“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 fosters collaboration and support, not division and discouragement, in our shared quest to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.”