Peter Obi Criticizes IGP’s Restrictions on Palliative Distribution, Calls for Compassion
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has expressed concerns regarding the recent directive from the Inspector General of Police (IGP) that imposes restrictions on the distribution of palliatives to the less privileged in Nigeria. Obi shared his thoughts in a statement on X.com (formerly Twitter) on Monday, describing the directive as “disturbing.”
While acknowledging that the directive was issued in response to safety concerns following tragic incidents related to palliative distribution, Obi argued that it could inadvertently discourage acts of goodwill and exacerbate the suffering of vulnerable Nigerians. He stated, “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.”
Obi recognized that the IGP’s directive is a response to recent tragedies and economic hardship, but he cautioned that it might be prone to abuse. He warned that such measures could hinder citizens’ ability to assist the hungry and distressed, adding that “acts of goodwill should not be hindered by excessive bureaucracy.”
The former governor emphasized that rather than imposing barriers, efforts should be made to organize the distribution of aid in a more coordinated manner. “The focus should be on promoting coordination, not imposing barriers that could deter much-needed acts of kindness in a time of widespread hunger, pain, and anger,” Obi said.
He also urged the government to address the root causes of the economic hardship facing Nigerians, stating that the focus should be on providing lasting solutions instead of creating obstacles for those willing to help. Obi concluded by urging the IGP to review the directive and foster collaboration, not division, in the collective effort to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.
