Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has called on the government to exercise caution regarding the arrest and detention of the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife in connection with a tragic stampede in Oyo State. The stampede, which occurred during a palliative distribution program, resulted in loss of lives and injuries, sparking nationwide conversations about poverty and hunger.

In a statement released on Monday, Mr. Obi extended his condolences to the victims and their families, describing the incident as a reflection of the severe hunger and poverty plaguing the country. He urged the government to approach the matter with empathy, emphasizing that acts of goodwill, even when they lead to unintended outcomes, should not be criminalized.

“The recent arrest of the organizers of a palliative distribution program in Oyo State, spearheaded by the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, has come to my attention. Acts of goodwill, even when they unintentionally result in unfortunate outcomes, should not be criminalized,” Obi stated.

He further argued that accountability should begin with the nation’s leaders and policymakers, whom he held responsible for the systemic failures that have led to widespread hardship.

“If accountability is to be sought, it should begin with the leaders and policymakers whose cumulative actions—or inactions—have inflicted the widespread hardship and suffering we see today,” he said.

Obi stressed the need for Nigeria to retrace its steps and focus on implementing policies that address the root causes of poverty and hunger. He called for a collective effort to create a system where citizens are not left desperate for basic necessities, noting that such an approach would rebuild trust and prevent future tragedies.

The stampede, which has sparked debates about the effectiveness of palliative distribution programs, highlights the urgent need for long-term solutions to Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges.