The Edo State government has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of planning to incite unrest and civil disorder under the pretense of protests and rallies to advance their political agenda in the state. This accusation comes amid ongoing disputes between the state government and the APC regarding the distribution of aid, particularly rice.
At a press conference in Benin, Mr. Chris Osa Nehikhare, the Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, claimed that the APC is engaging in a deliberate strategy to create chaos and distract from their gubernatorial candidate’s perceived inadequacies. Nehikhare stated that the APC’s actions aim to undermine the peace and stability of Edo State by using protests and rallies as a cover for their disruptive plans.
“Our investigations have uncovered that the APC intends to incite civil unrest and create disorder under the guise of protests,” Nehikhare said. “This tactic is meant to divert attention from their candidate’s weaknesses and avoid meaningful engagement with the electorate.” He assured that the state government is actively working to prevent these disruptions and will take legal action against anyone involved in such schemes.
In response to these accusations, Nehikhare also addressed the controversy surrounding the distribution of rice. After several weeks of back-and-forth accusations with the APC, the state government confirmed that it had indeed received a few truckloads of rice from the Federal Government several months ago. This clarification came after the APC claimed that the rice looted in Benin during recent protests was federal aid that the state had hoarded.
Nehikhare explained that the rice received from the Federal Government was distributed according to specific instructions. The rice was sent directly to displaced persons camps, orphanages, and local government areas, and was not handled or stored by the state government. This distribution process was designed to ensure that the aid reached those who needed it most, without any interference from the state government.
The commissioner emphasized that the state government did not purchase rice independently. Instead, the government allocated N2.2 billion to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to procure food items, including rice, for distribution through religious organizations. This effort was part of a broader initiative to support vulnerable populations in the state.
“The state government has provided N2.2 billion to CAN for the purchase of food and other essential items,” Nehikhare said. “This includes rice, as well as other staples like garri, yam, and plantains. Our focus is on ensuring that these resources are used effectively to help those in need.”
Addressing the APC’s claims about the rice, Nehikhare stressed that the few truckloads of rice received from the Federal Government were a small fraction compared to the state’s overall food support efforts. He highlighted that the state has made significant investments in poverty alleviation, including providing free bus services since last September and enrolling over 250,000 people in the Edo State health insurance program.
Nehikhare also called on residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or attempts to incite unrest. He assured the public that the state government is committed to maintaining peace and security and is prepared to address any threats to stability.
The Edo State government is determined to ensure that aid is distributed fairly and that any attempts to disrupt the state’s peace are met with appropriate action. The government’s ongoing efforts to support its residents and address their needs remain a top priority.
