In a recent development, the All Progressives Congress (APC) South-East Young Progressives Forum has accused Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, of mishandling federal palliative rice intended for the people of Anambra.
The group claims that the governor “re-bagged” the rice into smaller 10kg bags, branded with his image and that of his party, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), and distributed them selectively to APGA members.
In a joint statement issued to journalists in Awka, the National Convener of the forum, Paschal Candle, and the State Coordinator, Chibuzo Michael, described the governor’s actions as “fraudulent” and suggested that the rice distribution was a ploy for political gain in preparation for Soludo’s re-election campaign.
Related News: https://savingpointmedia.com/mbah-declares-state-open-for-business-seeks-federal-support-for-projects/
The statement raised concerns about the lack of transparency in the distribution process, alleging that the rice was not reaching the most vulnerable citizens in the state and was instead being distributed based on political affiliations.
The forum further criticized the governor for reportedly using federal rice palliatives to celebrate the birthday of Chief Arthur Eze, conveying APGA supporters to the event and distributing the branded rice as part of the celebrations.
In response to the allegations, Chief Tony Olisa-Mbeki, the Special Adviser to the APGA National Chairman on Media and Publicity, dismissed the APC’s claims as “baseless” and “unfounded.”
He emphasized that the palliatives were intended for all Anambra residents, irrespective of their party affiliations, and challenged the credibility of those making the accusations.
The controversy surrounding the alleged mismanagement of federal palliative rice adds a political dimension to Anambra’s socio-economic landscape, with calls for Governor Soludo to address the concerns raised by the APC South-East Young Progressives Forum and ensure transparency in the distribution of relief materials.
You can also read: https://savingpointmedia.com/amnesty-international-urges-president-tinubu-to-investigate-past-rights-violations/