The recent arrest of the organizers behind a palliative distribution program in Oyo State, led by the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, has raised significant concerns.
Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for the Labour Party, has called on the government to reconsider the action, stressing that the initiative was intended to alleviate suffering and offer relief to those in need, not cause harm.
Obi expressed his deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives that occurred during the distribution of palliatives, which he described as a reflection of the widespread hunger and poverty plaguing the nation. He offered his condolences to the families, communities, and states affected by the tragedy.
In his statement, Obi emphasized that the focus of accountability should be on the leadership and policymakers whose actions—or lack thereof—have contributed to the hardship and suffering faced by many Nigerians. He argued that it is the systemic failures of governance that need scrutiny, not the efforts of individuals attempting to help.
Obi called for a shift in the country’s priorities, urging the government to implement policies that address the root causes of poverty and ensure that no citizen is left desperate for basic necessities. He concluded by advocating for a system that rebuilds public trust and prevents such tragedies from recurring.
