Group Calls for Investigation into Alleged Diversion of Fed. Gov. Palliatives in Taraba State

By Bashir ADAMU Jalingo 

Group Calls for Investigation into Alleged Diversion of Fed. Gov. Palliatives in Taraba State

By Bashir, ADAMU Jalingo.

A Non-Governmental Organization, Taraba Concerned Citizens (TCC), has called on Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State to investigate the alleged diversion of federal government palliatives intended for the good people of the state.

TCC's coordinator, Mr. Timothy Gayus, and secretary, Hamisu Salejo, addressed journalists in Jalingo on Sunday, urging Governor Kefas to scrutinize the local government council chairmen responsible for distributing the palliatives.

According to widespread reports, the federal government sent palliatives, including bags of rice, maize, guinea corn, and fertilizers, to Taraba State to alleviate the current economic hardships. However, these commodities have allegedly been found for sale in major markets across the state, leading to calls for an immediate investigation.

The Committee members demands swift action from the governor to identify and hold accountable the local government officials responsible for the diversion. 

"We demand to know why palliatives meant for free distribution to the masses are instead found in major markets. Who sold them to the marketers? These palliatives were provided to ease the people's hardships, not to be sold. The local government council chairmen chose to sell the palliatives while the people are hungry," Gayus stated. "The individuals behind this diversion must be exposed and face the consequences of their actions."

When contacted, the state Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Hon. Saviour Nokun, confirmed that the allocations were first distributed to the local government areas. He acknowledged the reports of diversion and mentioned that he personally verified the presence of these commodities in Jalingo's main market. The commissioner expressed his dismay over the situation and assured that the government would take all necessary measures to identify those responsible for the diversion.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs revealed that Wukari, Sadauna, Jalingo, and Gasol local government areas received 850 bags each of rice, maize, millet, and sugar, while the remaining local government areas were allocated 800 bags each.