…Calls for Recognition of Humanitarian Efforts*
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly criticized the recent arrests of philanthropists and organizers of charitable events in connection with tragic stampedes across the country.
The association described these arrests as unconstitutional, unjust, and a misrepresentation of the vital role philanthropists play in alleviating the suffering of Nigerians, particularly during these challenging times.
HURIWA expressed dismay over the arrest of Naomi Silekunola, former wife of the Ooni of Ife, along with seven others in connection with the stampede at Islamic High School, Ibadan, which reportedly claimed the lives of 35 children and left six others critically injured. Similarly, the association criticized attempts to shift blame to the organizers of food distribution events such as the one held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, Abuja, which resulted in 10 fatalities.
The association also highlighted the stampede that occurred in Okija, Anambra State, during a long-standing charitable initiative organized by Chief Ernest Obiejesi, popularly known as Obi Jackson.
HURIWA noted that Obi Jackson has successfully organized this annual philanthropic activity for over 15 years, providing essential supplies such as food items and financial assistance to thousands of people in need.
The association described the tragic incident as an unfortunate anomaly and not reflective of the meticulous planning and goodwill that have characterized Obi Jackson’s previous events.
HURIWA emphasized that philanthropists and charitable organizations are rare in a country where over 133 million people live in multi-dimensional poverty. It noted that individuals like Obi Jackson, Naomi Silekunola, and organizations such as St. Vincent de Paul dedicate their resources to addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, often at great personal cost. Instead of vilifying such efforts, HURIWA argued, Nigeria should celebrate and honor these rare acts of compassion.
The association stressed that most charitable events are organized with pure intentions to alleviate the suffering of the deprived and vulnerable. In the case of St. Vincent de Paul, the organization has consistently extended help to individuals across all religious and ethnic backgrounds, including Muslims and people from other denominations. Similarly, Obi Jackson’s sustained commitment to supporting his community for over a decade is a testament to his selflessness and dedication to alleviating poverty.
HURIWA criticized the arrests following these tragedies, calling them irrational and unjustified. It argued that criminalizing philanthropists, especially individuals like Naomi Silekunola and Obi Jackson, who have consistently supported vulnerable populations through periodic charitable events, is counterproductive and detrimental to humanitarian efforts. According to HURIWA, such individuals deserve national honors, not police investigations or public vilification.
The association condemned the actions of the Oyo State Government for arresting Silekunola and called for her immediate release along with the others detained. It described the arrests as a gross misplacement of priorities, stressing that the real culprits behind the desperation seen at these events are the systemic failures and the weaponization of poverty by the government at all levels.
HURIWA attributed the growing desperation and chaos at public events to the worsening economic conditions in Nigeria, which have been exacerbated by poor governance and misguided policies. It blamed the federal government’s removal of fuel subsidies without adequate cushioning measures, which has led to skyrocketing inflation and the rising cost of living. It noted that staples like rice and garri, which were once affordable, have now become luxuries for many Nigerians.
The association lamented that such economic policies have pushed millions into extreme poverty, creating a situation where people risk their lives to access basic sustenance. Instead of addressing these underlying issues, the government has chosen to shift responsibility onto the few individuals who have stepped forward to offer help.
HURIWA urged the federal and state governments to focus on addressing the root causes of poverty and desperation, rather than criminalizing those who provide much-needed relief. It called for better planning and coordination of charitable events to ensure safety and prevent overcrowding. The association also emphasized the importance of public education to encourage orderly behavior at such gatherings.
HURIWA stressed that the societal disdain for philanthropists must end, as these individuals are not the problem but part of the solution. It called on the government to create mechanisms for recognizing and rewarding humanitarian contributions, stating that this would encourage more Nigerians to engage in charitable activities.
The association further highlighted the need for robust social safety nets to reduce dependency on charity and ensure that citizens have access to basic necessities. It urged the government to prioritize job creation, affordable healthcare, and food security, which would help mitigate the desperation seen at public events.
In concluding its statement, HURIWA reiterated its condemnation of the arrests of philanthropists like Naomi Silekunola and demanded their immediate release. It also called on the government to formally recognize the efforts of individuals like Obi Jackson, whose consistent humanitarian work has impacted countless lives. HURIWA warned that criminalizing these philanthropists would discourage others from engaging in similar efforts, leaving millions of Nigerians without critical support.
The association called on all stakeholders to work together to create a society where charity is celebrated and protected, not criminalized. HURIWA pledged to continue advocating for justice and fairness, emphasizing that Nigeria must do better to support its most vulnerable citizens and those who dedicate their lives to helping them.
*Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko*
National Coordinator
Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA)
December 23, 2024
