The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of the over 22 women who tragically lost their lives in a stampede during a palliative distribution event in Okija, Anambra State. The stampede occurred during the annual food distribution organized by philanthropist Obi Jackson, aimed at supporting vulnerable communities in the region during the festive season.
In a statement signed by Comrade Emma Powerful, the group’s Media and Publicity Secretary, IPOB described the incident as “heartbreaking” and emphasized the urgent need for better crowd management and safety measures at future relief events. The group praised Jackson’s continued philanthropic efforts, stating that his goodwill should not be discouraged despite the tragic loss of lives at his event.
IPOB also highlighted the role of Nigerian politicians in exacerbating poverty, which has led to overwhelming crowds seeking relief. According to IPOB, the desperation resulting from years of poor governance has created a volatile environment, where large numbers of people gather for aid without adequate safety or planning.
“Nigeria’s failure as a state has forced individuals like Obi Jackson to step in to fill the gap, but it is not his fault that lives were lost,” the statement read. “Future events must ensure safety, proper planning, and decentralized distribution methods.”
The group suggested that future palliative distributions be decentralized, with smaller, village-level events to reduce the likelihood of overcrowding. They also stressed the importance of implementing effective security and crowd control protocols to prevent similar incidents.
Furthermore, IPOB encouraged philanthropists to focus on sustainable empowerment initiatives rather than short-term relief programs. They called for investment in agriculture and industrial development as a means of addressing the root causes of poverty.
“We must create lasting economic opportunities through sustainable agricultural and industrial initiatives,” the statement said, echoing the famous proverb, “Teach a man to fish, and he will eat for a lifetime.”
IPOB also appealed to wealthy Igbo individuals to invest in local industries, support youth employment, and provide resources like seedlings for farming. They reiterated their vision of an Agricultural and Industrial Revolution in the Southeast, urging Igbo investors to relocate their businesses back to the region to help foster economic self-sufficiency.
“We must not cultivate a culture of dependency. The Igbo people are resilient, and we must reclaim our heritage of self-sustainability,” IPOB emphasized.
In conclusion, the group mourned the victims of the stampede and called for a reevaluation of poverty alleviation strategies in the region. IPOB urged all stakeholders—philanthropists, community leaders, and government agencies—to work together towards sustainable solutions that address the fundamental causes of poverty and ensure that such tragedies are never repeated.
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