Kogi State government has refuted insinuations that bags of rice given to the state for citizens as palliatives were rebagged and sold in the market.
The government in reaction to the insinuation from some quarters said the claim was misleading and entirely untrue.
A statement on Monday by the state Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Timothy Ojomah, said the bags of rice meant as palliative for the citizens were branded and marked as “Not for Sale,” and could therefore not be sold in the open market.
According to the statement, “The rice palliatives are clearly branded and marked as ‘Not for Sale.” Monitoring teams are in place to ensure proper distribution
“We have investigated the claim and found no evidence to support it. The state government distributed palliatives before sallah which is over a month ago and numerous beneficiaries have come forward to attest to receiving the palliatives and expressed gratitude to His Excellency (Alhaji Usman Ododo).
“The false claim is likely aimed at discrediting the government’s efforts to support citizens. We urge citizens to be cautious of misinformation and verify information through credible sources.
“We assure the public that the government of His Excellency, Alh Ahmed Usman Ododo has zero tolerance for any form of diversion of public facilities, especially as it concerns what is meant for the indigent and the downtrodden which the palliatives are meant to serve.
“We will continue to monitor and address any misinformation aimed at undermining our efforts.”
