Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in Nigeria’s 2023 general election, has strongly condemned the recent arrest of individuals involved in organizing a palliative distribution program in Oyo State. He criticized President Bola Tinubu and other Nigerian leaders, holding them accountable for the ongoing hunger and poverty devastating the nation.
In a statement, Obi expressed his profound sorrow and extended condolences to the affected families, communities, and states. He described the tragic incidents during palliative distribution events as a stark reflection of the severe economic hardship faced by many Nigerians.
Obi urged the government to reconsider its stance on arresting those behind the palliative initiative. He emphasized that charitable acts, even when they lead to unfortunate incidents, should not be criminalized. Instead, he suggested that systemic governance failures, not the efforts of individuals trying to provide relief, deserve scrutiny.
Highlighting the need for policies aimed at uplifting citizens, Obi called for a national focus on creating a system where no one is left desperate for basic needs.
The stampedes linked to palliative distributions occurred in Oyo, Anambra, and the Federal Capital Territory, resulting in multiple fatalities. In Oyo, an event organized by former Queen Naomi Shikemi saw the loss of 35 children during a Christmas funfair. In Anambra’s Okija town, another 20 lives were lost during a rice distribution.
Obi pointed out that, with Nigeria’s inflation rate at 34.60%, millions of citizens struggle to afford basic necessities. Many now depend on palliative programs to survive.
In his full statement, Obi said:
“As we mourn the tragic loss of lives resulting from palliative distribution efforts, I am deeply troubled by the harsh realities of hunger and poverty plaguing our nation. My thoughts and prayers remain with the affected families, communities, and states.”
“The recent arrest of the organizers of a palliative initiative in Oyo State, led by the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, has come to my attention. I appeal to the government to reconsider this action. Acts of goodwill, even when they have unintended consequences, should not be seen as criminal.”
“Accountability must start with the leaders and policymakers whose decisions—or lack thereof—have caused widespread suffering. Governance failures, not the efforts of well-meaning individuals, should be under the spotlight.”
“As a nation, we must prioritize policies and actions that uplift our people, ensuring no one is left desperate for basic necessities. It is only through this approach that we can rebuild trust and prevent such tragedies in the future.”
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