Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cyber Security, Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu has advised philanthropists and other well-to-do individuals to distribute palliatives without endangering the lives of the intended beneficiaries.
Salisu who represents Ogun Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, gave the advice at the opening of 114th Islamic Vocation Course organised by the Muslims Society of Nigeria, MSSN, B-Zone.
Arogidigba Global Journal reports that no fewer than fifty people lost their lives during palliatives distribution that turned into a stampede in Ibadan, Oyo State, another in Anambra State and Maitama in the FCT, Abuja days ago.
Salisu while addressing journalists noted that organisers of events that have to do with crowds should put safety and security measures in place and urged Nigerians to adopt measures that will not result in stampede at public events.
Salisu said, “I must first of all commensurate with the victims and their families over that very agonizing incident in the last few weeks to the end of the year. This year has been very challenging for Nigerians.
“So, my condolences first and foremost. To the victims, I wish them a quick recovery. I am concerned in the sense that any loss of life diminishes humanity. Whether in Ibadan, Anambra, Abuja or outside the country.
“But the most important thing is that what the federal government has done. We must ensure that we put measures in place if we want to give out palliatives.
“Please, ensure that the palliatives are given in such a manner that does not constitute a hazard to the health and safety of the intended beneficiaries.
“Let us adopt measures to give out palliatives without endangering the lives of the beneficiaries. And henceforth, any gathering, we must ensure that it does not result in a stampede”.