Residents of Chanchaga Local Government Area in Niger State are raising concerns over the alleged hijacking of palliatives meant for distribution by the state government. Despite an announcement by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Binta Mamman, regarding the procurement of assorted grains for distribution, many residents claim they have yet to receive any assistance.

The state government had set up Ramadan feeding centers in all eight emirate councils, with plans to distribute grains to various groups, including internally displaced persons, emirs, religious leaders, security agencies, and political parties. However, residents of Chanchaga LGA are still waiting for the promised 21,000 bags of assorted grains, as the five-day public holiday for distribution comes to an end.

Concerned residents have voiced their frustrations, accusing top officials and politicians of hijacking the palliatives for personal gain. Musa Kanko, a resident of Minna, questioned the government’s intentions behind purchasing grains worth billions if they are not reaching those in need.

Housewives Halima Abdullahi and Comfort Musa expressed disbelief at the delay in distribution, labeling it as another political game at the expense of the people’s suffering. In a separate incident, legislators in Mokwa LGA criticized the handling of the special Ramadan feeding program, alleging that village heads are controlling the scheme without involving council officials.

Abubakar Isah, the House Leader of Mokwa Council, highlighted the lack of transparency in the distribution process, with village heads claiming authority over the funds allocated for the feeding program. The legislators called on the state government to intervene and address the discrepancies to ensure fair and equitable distribution of the palliatives.

As residents continue to wait for the much-needed assistance, the call for accountability and transparency in the distribution of palliatives grows louder, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that aid reaches those most in need during these challenging times.