From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
To cushion the hardship faced by the people of the state, the Benue State government has commenced the second phase of the distribution of federal government palliatives, beginning with persons with special needs.
The state governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, who was represented by his Principal Private Secretary Dr. Emmanuel Chenge, while flagging off the distribution in Makurdi, said over 23,400 bags of rice and 24,000 bags of maize are expected to be distributed to different segments of the society.
Governor Alia said the release of palliatives by the federal government is a testimony and commitment of the Tinubu government in alleviating the suffering of the Benue people and Nigerians, especially in the face of current realities that have taken a great toll on the people.
Alia, who described the palliatives as a big relief, acknowledged the frustration caused by the long delay in distributing the palliatives, explaining that it was done to ensure thoroughness and transparency, maintaining that it is better to strive for due process than perfection.
He said “I am aware of the delay and frustration caused but it was to ensure thoroughness and transparency. We will ensure equity and fairness.
“I want to reaffirm our administration’s commitment towards the well-being of the people, especially in these trying times.
“But I want you to know that the distribution of palliatives is not sustainable. I urge the people to go back to the farm and cultivate the food they will eat.
“I appeal to the committee to exercise and carry out their duty with integrity and diligence.”
Speaking, the Executive Secretary, Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA), Sir James Iorpuu, said the commitment of the federal government to distributing palliatives to the state has been steadfast and unwavering.
He regretted the delay in distributing the palliatives, stating that the urgency of the situation has made it necessary for them to be distributed even as he assured that the process will be seamless.
The Personal Assistant to the Governor on People With Disabilities and State Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons With Disabilities (JONAPWD), Hon. Bem Anshe, appreciated the state and federal government for the gesture, especially for factoring in PWDs and starting the distribution with them.
“I thank President Tinubu for making Benue a priority and Governor Alia for carrying us along in the first and second phases. We pledge to support his government to achieve desired results.”
One of the beneficiaries, Mariam Vande, also appreciated Governor Hyacinth Alia for the palliatives, saying that was the first time she was receiving such a gift from the state government.