The Federal Government has denied claims linking recent food distribution stampedes to President Tinubu's economic reforms. Minister Mohammed Idris emphasized proper crowd control for such events, urging collaboration with security agencies. He criticized attempts to politicize the incidents, highlighting the administration’s focus on uplifting vulnerable Nigerians without causing distress.
The Federal Government has refuted claims that recent stampedes during Oyo, Anambra, and Abuja food distribution were connected to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms. Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, emphasized the need for better crowd management during charitable events to prevent such tragedies.
In a statement by his Senior Special Assistant, Rabiu Ibrahim, the Minister acknowledged organizers' good intentions in helping vulnerable Nigerians. However, he urged compliance with directives from the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to ensure effective crowd control and coordination with security agencies like the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
Idris warned against politicizing the incidents, stating they were not caused by the administration’s reforms, which aim to reposition the economy for sustainable growth. He added that similar incidents occurred before this administration, making linking them to current policies unfair.
The Minister reiterated that Tinubu’s reforms prioritize uplifting vulnerable Nigerians without causing further hardship. He called for collaboration between event organizers and security agencies to safeguard lives during such initiatives.
