Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has ordered an investigation into stampedes at food distribution events in Abuja and Anambra State, which left at least 13 dead and many injured.
In Maitama, Abuja, a stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church claimed ten lives and injured several others during the distribution of food to vulnerable individuals. In Okija, Anambra State, a similar philanthropic event resulted in three fatalities and multiple injuries.
IGP Condemns Negligence
The IGP described the negligence of event organisers as criminal and mandated police commissioners in both states to conduct thorough investigations to determine liability and pursue legal action.
Call for Collaboration and Security
The IGP urged organisers of palliative distributions, including government officials, NGOs, and community leaders, to collaborate with security agencies to ensure safety and orderliness. He warned that negligence would be prosecuted under the Penal and Criminal Codes.
The police also appealed for calm as the injured receive treatment.