Babatunji Wusu –
On Monday, thousands of vulnerable individuals armed with food vouchers converged on the Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Council headquarters to collect essential food items such as rice, beans, and garri. This distribution is part of a broader initiative by the Akwa Ibom State government to alleviate the hardships faced by citizens due to the current economic climate.
Governor Pastor Umo Eno, acknowledging the severe economic challenges affecting the country, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the welfare of the state’s residents. In response, he established the State Bulk Purchase Agency, tasked with procuring and distributing staple foodstuffs free of charge to those in need throughout the state.
During the second phase of the palliative distribution, Hon. Uyime Etim, the General Manager of the State Bulk Purchase Agency, outlined the process. The agency uses a World Bank-endorsed register to identify beneficiaries. Vouchers are issued to individuals listed in this register by the governor’s personal assistants at the council wards. Beneficiaries are required to authenticate their vouchers at the distribution center before receiving their food items.
Etim emphasized that the distribution is a temporary measure aimed at alleviating the immediate impact of the economic downturn. He highlighted the governor’s encouragement for a return to agriculture and farming as a long-term solution to hunger and poverty.
Hon. Aniekan Umana, a former House of Representatives member and Media Consultant to the Governor, praised the timeliness of the palliative distribution given the current economic situation. He commended Governor Eno for his compassionate approach, noting that the foodstuffs are distributed without political bias and are intended solely for those who are genuinely vulnerable.
Umana pointed out the diverse range of beneficiaries, which includes individuals from various political affiliations, underscoring the governor’s belief that hunger transcends political boundaries. The distribution effort is scheduled to continue across all 31 local government areas in the state until November 11, 2024.
Additionally, Hon. Ubong Obot, representing the Ibesikpo Asutan state constituency in the state Assembly, and Mrs. Akon Michael Asuquo, the Transition Committee Chairman of the council, expressed their gratitude to Governor Umo Eno. They praised his commitment to supporting the less privileged and his dedication to the people of Ibesikpo Asutan.
“The governor has been exceptionally helpful, kind, and generous to our people, and we will enthusiastically support him in the next elections,” said a local resident of Ibesikpo Asutan. “Our community feels deeply indebted to him for the numerous projects he has completed here in just over a year.”
The sentiment was echoed by several beneficiaries who spoke with correspondents. They expressed renewed faith in the governor’s compassion and leadership, describing him as a truly caring father figure and a genuine man of God.
Mr. Ekemini Udoh, a 72-year-old recipient of the aid, shared his gratitude, stating, “The governor has given me another reason to smile. The rising cost of market goods had left me heartbroken, but what I have received today will be a significant help to me.” His words reflect the profound impact of the governor’s gesture on the lives of the vulnerable, reaffirming the belief that the governor’s support extends beyond mere policy, deeply resonating with the people’s everyday struggles.
