From Wilson Okereke, Afikpo
The proposed distribution of farm inputs and relief materials for the selected farmers and victims of flood disaster by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Ebonyi State, has ended in fiasco.
Trouble reportedly started when the large crowd alongside the 5,000 targeted beneficiaries who were at the Centenary City venue of the event by 10:00am, suddenly became enraged around 2:15 pm and started struggling for the items in a disorderly manner. Their unruly action may have been because of long delay in distributing the materials.
Before crisis erupted, the chairman of the occasion, Chief Ben Okah, said that the distribution of the farm inputs and relief materials was to improve agriculture in the state and ameliorate the sufferings of the people affected by flood disaster.
“I am a farmer and I feel the pains of farmers. This occasion is meant for the farmers affected by flood, it is not only important but also in line with the governor’s Charter of Needs to encourage the affected farmers to go back to their various farms,” he said.
He disclosed that the governor has consistently fulfilled his promises to the people adding that the disbursement was meant to encourage the efforts of genuine farmers in the state.
Commissioner for Human Capital Development, Ebonyi State, Mrs Ann Aligwe said that the state partnered with NEMA in empowering the 5,000 persons with the items as pumping machines, nap sack sprayer, yam seedlings, and mosquito nets among others.
According to her, the event would continue after the flag-off until all the targeted persons are captured, and as a result appreciated NEMA officials, and the state governor for the assistance.
Director-General of NEMA, Mr Mustapha Ahmed represented by Mr Kadiri Olarenwaju, commended the state for providing his office with the opportunity, and also disclosed that no other set would benefit in the next tranche.
Deputy Governor, Patricia Obila, who represented Governor Francis Nwifuru, said the government was determined to provide the victims of disasters with succour and change the narrative of Ebonyi people.
According to her, there were 10 warehouses loaded with the materials across the council areas where the targeted persons would collect the items to lessen the inconveniences and expenses associated with transporting themselves from Abakaliki.
She said: “After this flag-off, the rest distributions will be done at the council areas to lessen the inconvenience.”