Abia begins distribution of subsidy removal palliatives in Umuaiah

*Governor Alex Otti of Abia State of Nigeria, at commencement of the distribution of food relief packages to consumers  in Umuaiah, the state capital, stresses the palliatives are meant for ‘the poorest of the poor’ to reduce the effects of economic hardship in the state

Alexander Davis | ConsumerConnect

Sequel to the Federal Government’s removal of fuel subsidy and subsequent allocation of financial and food palliatives to states, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has commenced the distribution of palliatives to cushion the impact of subsidy removal.

ConsumerConnect learnt the state government had shared at least 3,000 bags of rice (50 kg) in the first phase to political wards across the state, as also activated the distribution of 12,600 bags received in the second phase.

Governor Otti at the flag-off event in Micheal Okwara Auditorium in Umuahia, the Abia State capital, said the food relief packages were meant for the poorest of the poor in order to mitigate the effects of the economic hardship on them and no government appointees should receive a grain, according to report.

The state governor, represented by Rev. Fr. Christian Uche Anokwuru, Special Adviser (SA) on Policies and Interventions, reportedly stated the palliatives were “only a show of empathy” for the people as more sustainable initiatives were being implemented in phases in Abia State.

Samuel Maduabuchi, one of the beneficiaries of the food relief packages, applauded the Federal Government and Abia State Government for the gesture, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to do more.