The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has expressed grave concerns over the disorganized distribution of palliatives and relief items during the festive season, following a series of deadly stampedes across Nigeria.

In Ibadan, Oyo State, a tragic incident on December 18, 2024, claimed the lives of 35 children at a children’s funfair, leaving many others critically injured.

Days later, on December 21, 2024, a stampede during a food distribution at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, Abuja, resulted in the death of 10 individuals, with several others sustaining injuries.

In another palliative distribution event organized by philanthropist Obi Jackson in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, chaos erupted, leaving three people dead and many more injured.

Addressing the press in Abuja on Saturday, Force Spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi revealed that the IGP has directed Commissioners of Police in the affected states to investigate these incidents and consider possible legal actions.

“The IGP emphasized the risks posed to public safety during uncoordinated distributions and events by groups, individuals, and NGOs.

These unorganized activities have led to stampedes, long queues, and unnecessary confrontations, endangering lives,” Adejobi stated.

To prevent further tragedies, the IGP called on government officials, community leaders, and non-governmental organizations to collaborate in creating a structured and secure framework for palliative distribution.

Egbetokun also sympathized with the families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

He noted that the organizers of these events may face legal consequences under Nigeria’s Penal and Criminal Codes for negligence that resulted in loss of lives.

“The IGP has warned groups and event organizers to involve security agencies in their planning.

Negligence is a criminal offense under Sec. 196 of the Penal Code and Sec. 344 of the Criminal Code.

These provisions will be strictly enforced,” Adejobi added.

The IGP urged proactive measures to ensure public safety during future distributions and emphasized that security agencies would hold organizers accountable for any lapses.