The immediate past Peoples Demicratic Party candidate for Dekina/Bassa federal constituency, Usman Okai Austin, has called on the Kogi State Government to clarify the whereabouts of 20 trucks of rice sent by the federal government to alleviate hunger among citizens.
Okai expressed concern on Friday over the state government’s silence on the issue, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in governance.
He noted that the rice distribution is a critical lifeline for many families struggling to make ends meet and urged Governor Usman Ododo to take immediate action and provide clarity on the situation, according to Daily Post.
Okai also stressed the need for credible individuals to be appointed to oversee the distribution process, citing previous instances of aid diversion.
He emphasized that the rice is meant for all citizens, regardless of political affiliations, and urged the government to address the situation as a broader call for responsible governance.
The federal government’s rice donation is part of a broader strategy to address food insecurity, particularly in states like Kogi, which have been significantly affected by economic challenges and the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to Okai, “Withholding information about such essential aid sends a troubling message to the people of Kogi State. The citizens deserve to know where the rice is and how it will be distributed. This is not just a matter of food; it is about transparency and accountability in governance.”
“The people of Kogi State are waiting for their rightful share of this aid. It is the government’s responsibility to ensure that these resources reach those who need them most,” he added.
In light of the federal government’s announcement, Okai urged Governor Ododo to take immediate action and provide clarity on the situation.
“Silence on such an important issue is not acceptable. Governor Ododo must speak up and assure the people that the rice will be distributed fairly and transparently,” he said.
“We cannot allow history to repeat itself. The rice is not a political tool for the All Progressives Congress (APC) but a resource meant for all citizens, regardless of their political affiliations,” he emphasized.
Okai urged Ododo to address the situation surrounding the 20 trucks of rice as not just about food distribution; “it is a broader call for responsible governance and a commitment to serving all citizens of Kogi State.”
