By Divine Sam
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) have urged Igbo philanthropists to refrain from distributing food palliatives to the people of the Southeast in light of the recent stampede tragedy in Okija, Anambra State, which resulted in the deaths of over 20 women. In a statement issued on Monday, IPOB’s spokesman, Emma Powerful, expressed condolences for the victims and acknowledged that the philanthropist, Obi Jackson, who organized the food distribution, should not be blamed for the incident.
IPOB, however, called for better organization of future aid efforts to prevent similar tragedies, suggesting that food distribution should take place in smaller, more manageable settings, with proper security to ensure order. They also emphasized the importance of empowering people to reduce dependency on external aid by encouraging agricultural self-sufficiency. Instead of food giveaways, IPOB recommended that philanthropists provide seedlings to encourage people to return to their farmlands and become more self-reliant.
Furthermore, IPOB urged wealthy Igbos to invest in creating job opportunities and industries in the region, promoting local businesses, and fostering economic growth. They also appealed to Igbo philanthropists to help youth find employment and productive avenues to combat poverty, rather than perpetuating a cycle of dependency.
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