Gombe State Government Reacts to Palliatives Distribution Controversy

The Gombe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has responded to allegations that the distribution of palliatives in the state was based on political considerations. The Executive Secretary of SEMA, Mr Abdullahi Abdullahi, stated that the palliatives were distributed fairly to the most vulnerable in the state, regardless of political affiliation. He emphasized that the palliatives were meant for the people of Gombe and not just members of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Recently, there have been claims that the palliatives were distributed by APC executives at the ward level, resulting in only APC members receiving them. Residents expressed their concerns regarding the alleged one-sided distribution, stating that other opposition party members were excluded.

Hajia Halima Musa, a resident of Hayin Dogo in Nasarawa community, expressed her disappointment, stating, "I feel it is wrong that only APC members were considered during the distribution. The fuel subsidy removal affected not only APC members, so why are they the only ones receiving palliatives?"

Similarly, Ms Rebecca John from the same community highlighted how APC members in their ward held meetings to plan the distribution, leading to only their members benefitting. She raised concerns about the lack of inclusiveness, as the state Governor had directed that the palliatives be given to the most vulnerable, irrespective of political affiliation.

Responding to the allegations, Abdullahi reiterated that the palliatives were meant for all Gombe state residents and were distributed fairly to the most vulnerable. He clarified that the distribution was not influenced by political considerations, emphasizing that the beneficiaries were selected randomly from polling units across the state.

"The issue that only APC members benefited from the palliatives is not true. We distributed the palliatives without considering the party affiliation of the recipients. It is important to note that not everyone could receive the palliatives as our target was 10 persons per polling unit," Abdullahi explained.

Abdullahi further stated that he had not received any complaints regarding APC executives anchoring the distribution in certain wards. He assured the public that once the Federal Government's palliatives arrived, it would provide more coverage across the state.

The controversy surrounding the distribution of palliatives in Gombe state raises concerns about the need for transparency and inclusiveness in such initiatives. It is essential that the distribution of aid reaches all those in need, regardless of their political affiliations. The government must ensure that the directives of the state Governor are followed diligently to bridge the gap between the people and the government.

The upcoming distribution of Federal Government's palliatives presents an opportunity to rectify any perceived bias in the initial distribution. By adhering to fair and inclusive distribution methods, the government can restore public trust and alleviate tensions among the residents.

The focus should remain on providing support to the most vulnerable and affected individuals and not be influenced by political considerations. Only through a united and inclusive approach can Gombe state effectively address the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and ensure the well-being of its residents.

Source of content: OOO News 2023-08-28 News

More detailed, more comprehensive, fresher news, please visit OOO NEWS.