Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi has expressed concern over the recent directive by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, imposing restrictions on the distribution of palliatives to the less privileged.
While acknowledging the directive as a response to recent tragedies linked to palliative distributions, Obi warned that it risks stifling the spirit of compassion among Nigerians.
“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,” he wrote on X on Monday.
Obi noted that while public safety is important, the directive could discourage citizens from assisting those in need during a period of severe economic hardship. He described the measure as potentially open to misuse and cautioned against excessive bureaucracy hindering acts of goodwill.
“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,” Obi said. He urged the police to focus on promoting structured and safe methods for distributing aid, rather than creating barriers that might dissuade acts of kindness.
Highlighting the urgency of the current economic crisis, Obi called for efforts to channel compassion constructively while ensuring that help reaches vulnerable groups efficiently and safely. He also emphasised the need for the government to address the root causes of the nation’s suffering, blaming insensitive policies for deepening the hardship faced by many.
“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,” he wrote.
Obi urged the IGP to review the directive and shift the focus towards fostering collaboration between citizens and authorities in tackling widespread hunger and distress. He stressed that this is not the time to hinder generosity but to create an enabling environment for Nigerians to support one another through tough times.
“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,” he concluded.
