News
COVID-19 lockdown: NGO urges effective distribution of palliatives in Ebonyi
An NGO, Development Integrity Foundation (DIG), has urged Ebonyi Government to eschew partisanship in the distribution of palliative items released to cushion hardship occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown.
The Executive Director of DIG, Mr Oliver Aja, made the appeal in Abakaliki on Tuesday in an interview with our correspondent.
The director commended state government for approving the release of the sum of N1.5 billion to cushion economic hardship occasioned by the lockdown and sit-at-home order by government.
ALSO READ:Full text Speech of President Buhari On The Extension Of Covid- 19 Pandemic Lockdown
He said that state authorities should ensure effective monitoring of the distribution of the palliatives to ensure that the palliatives got to the vulnerable population, the items were meant to help.
He also warned against diversion of funds, materials and sharing of the items along party line, urging government to be fair, transparent and unbiased in the distribution.
“What we are asking government is to ensure that the distribution of palliative materials is not politicised or hijacked by politicians.
“Items released for distribution must get to the vulnerable members of society including those residing in the remote areas of the state,’’ Aja said.
According to him, there should not be any party sentiment.
“If you are of APC, Labour or PDP and you fall into the category of those to benefit, you must not be discriminated against.
“We, in the Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) will closely monitor the exercise and also engage with relevant government institutions and officials performing roles in the exercise to ensure that the right thing is done.
“We also commend the Governor. Chief Dave Umahi for the release; individuals and other corporate bodies who have donated materials to support government in the fight against the dreaded new Corona virus.
“We will be on a radio programme on Friday, April 17 to discuss the place of the marginalised group including physically challenged persons who are the worst affected in the palliative arrangement.
“The palliatives should not be used for political patronage; it should not be PDP or APC affair, it should cut across every stratum of the population that should benefit,” he said.
Aja said that the coalition of CSOs in Ebonyi were regularly meeting with state officials to follow up government activities with regard to the distribution of the palliatives.
Meanwhile some residents of Abakaliki who spoke with NAN on their expectations, urged the governor to supervise the distribution of the materials to ensure that they did not enter the wrong hands.
Efforts to speak with Mr Uchenna Orji, the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation on when government would commence distribution of the palliative materials to the people, were not successful.
A source in the Ministry who spoke with NAN on condition of anonymity, said that modalities for implementation of the programme were being worked out, saying that the relevant committees would soon begin distribution.
He noted that government would be strict and firm in monitoring distribution of items released for palliatives, saying that government had promised to deal with anybody found sabotaging the palliative programme.
Our correspondent reports that Umahi at a recent broadcast to the people of Ebonyi announced that the state government had approved the sum of N1 billion.
This was later increased to N1.5 billion for procurement of rice, other food items and purchase of face masks, among others.
Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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I am writing to felicitate with Your Excellency, Atku Abubakar, GCON, former Vice-President of Nigeria (Zege Mule u Tiv & Wazirin Adamawa)
on the occasion of your 79th birthday anniversary.
I join your teeming admirers globally in celebrating you on this special day, an adorable Statesman and my Boss.
I recall with nostalgia, how countless generations have benefited from your generosity, wealth of experience and benevolence including being my key benefactor even as a young lawyer for my professional success.
Your Excellency, may your special day be filled with grandeur befitting your illustrious career.
I wish you continued success, prosperity, and an unending stream of accolades.
It takes a remarkable kind of fortitude to remain active in public life well into one’s golden years. Your dedication and patriotism remain truly exceptional.
May you enjoy a day of reflection on your many years of fruitful service to humanity. It is my prayer that God Almighty grants you many more healthy, fruitful, and fulfilling years ahead, and continues to endow you with wisdom, strength, and the grace to keep contributing to our nation-building.
Happy Birthday, Your Excellency.
Michael Kaase Aondoakaa SAN.
Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice
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