- 2023 Labour party presidential candidate Peter Obi voiced concerns over the IGP's directive restricting palliative distribution, warning it could hinder public generosity
- Obi urged the government to promote coordination in aid efforts rather than imposing bureaucratic barriers that discourage citizens from helping the vulnerable
- Obi then called for lasting solutions to Nigeria's economic hardship, criticising policies that create obstacles for those trying to alleviate suffering
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has voiced strong concerns over the recent directive from the Inspector General of Police (IGP) that imposes restrictions on the distribution of palliatives to the less privileged. Obi described the move as "disturbing" and warned it could hinder acts of generosity and exacerbate the suffering of vulnerable Nigerians.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, December 23, Obi acknowledged that the directive aimed to address safety issues following tragic incidents linked to the distribution of palliatives.
However, he raised concerns that the restrictions could unintentionally discourage citizens from assisting those in need.
Obi wrote, “The latest directive of the Inspector General of Police 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."
He went on to argue that the directive could stifle goodwill, stating, "It is capable of discouraging citizens from helping the hungry and distressed among us."
While Obi expressed understanding of the need for better organisation and attention to public safety, he cautioned against excessive bureaucracy that could impede the willingness of Nigerians to offer help.
"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," he suggested.
Obi stressed the importance of promoting coordination and collaboration rather than imposing barriers, urging the government to focus on addressing the root causes of Nigeria’s economic hardship.
He added, “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.”
In his statement, Obi also called on the government to provide lasting solutions to the economic crisis, rather than creating obstacles for those attempting to alleviate the suffering caused by government policies. He urged the IGP to reconsider the directive and work with the public to alleviate the hardships Nigerians are facing.
Reno Omokri calls out Peter Obi over his silence on threat to lives of Nigerians in Canada
Earlier, TheRadar reported that the former presidential aide and political activist Reno Omokri had called out the former presidential candidate for the Labour Party, Peter Obi, for keeping mum over the threat to the lives of Yoruba and Edo people in Canada by one Amaka Patience Sunnberger.
He said the former presidential candidate would have released a lengthy statement if it were to be someone from the North or South-West.
