Multiple Dead in Abuja, Anambra Stampedes as IGP Warns Organizers

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has directed the Commissioners of Police in Anambra State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, to investigate the tragic stampedes that occurred during palliative distributions in Okija and Maitama. 

The incidents, which have claimed multiple lives, have been attributed to the lack of security arrangements by organizers.

Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, disclosed that the organizers of the palliative distributions in Ibadan, Maitama, and Okija failed to request security support, which might have averted the chaos. 

In a statement titled “IGP Warns Against Unauthorized Distribution of Palliatives and Funfairs,” Adejobi said, "The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has raised serious concerns about the unorganized distribution of palliatives and relief items during this festive period. This trend is alarming and poses significant risks to the lives of citizens, especially the vulnerable youth and elderly."

The warning follows a series of deadly incidents. In Ibadan, on December 18, 2024, a stampede at a children's funfair resulted in the death of at least 35 children, with many others critically injured. On December 21, at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, a stampede during the distribution of food items left 10 people dead and several others injured. 

On the same day in Okija, Anambra State, a palliative distribution organized by a philanthropist, Obi Jackson, turned chaotic, resulting in the deaths of three individuals. Several others sustained injuries and are receiving treatment at local hospitals.

ACP Adejobi criticized the unstructured approach to aid distribution, which often leads to overcrowding, long queues, and unnecessary confrontations. He emphasized, "The dangers posed to public safety during these unorganized distributions are immense. Organizers must collaborate with security agencies to prevent such tragedies."

The IGP warned that negligence by organizers constitutes a criminal offense under Sections 196 of the Penal Code and 344 of the Criminal Code. He also called on the public to prioritize safety while attending such events. 

To prevent future occurrences, the Nigeria Police Force has pledged to work with government officials, community leaders, and NGOs to create a more structured framework for aid distribution.

The IGP expressed his condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a speedy recovery. "These tragedies are deeply regrettable. We are committed to ensuring that future aid distributions are seamless and secure," he added.