Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has called for an investigation into the recent stampedes that occurred during food distribution events in Abuja and Anambra State, which led to multiple fatalities and injuries.
Henzodaily reports that the first incident took place at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, where at least ten people lost their lives, and many others were injured while receiving food aid meant for vulnerable and elderly individuals.
Another unfortunate stampede occurred at a charity program organised by Chief Ernest Obiejesi, popularly known as Obijackson, a philanthropist and Chieftain of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), leaving three confirmed dead and several others wounded.
A senior police officer who confirmed the incident said, “Yes, it’s true. The Commissioner of Police, Obono Itam, has already dispatched officers to the site.
“The stampede likely resulted from the crowd’s rush, but the command will begin an investigation immediately. It was a pure accident, and we deeply sympathize with the affected families.”
In response to the incidents, IGP Egbetokun condemned the negligence of those responsible for the distribution, deeming it a criminal act.
He stressed that proper precautions should have been taken to prevent such chaos.
During a press briefing in Abuja on Saturday, Nigeria Police Force (NPF) spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi revealed that the IGP had instructed police commissioners in the affected states to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedies.