Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Rayyan Alhassan
Published on 2024-02-28 14:14:24
The People’s Democratic Party, PDP, has raised concerns about the rice pyramids introduced by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2022, calling on the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, to explain the current status of the initiative. The demand for clarity comes amid the backdrop of increased hunger and economic hardships facing Nigerians.
Debo Ologunagba, the national publicity secretary of the PDP, highlighted the urgency of addressing the issue, especially in light of the recent tragedy in Lagos where seven individuals lost their lives during a stampede at a discounted rice sale by the Nigerian Customs Service. Ologunagba pointed out that such fatalities could have been prevented if the APC had ensured a steady supply of the rice initially promoted by the Buhari administration.
The spokesperson criticized the past claims of surplus rice production and the success of government intervention programs like the Anchor Borrowers Scheme, alleging that these assertions were deceptive and failed to address the prevailing food shortages and hunger in the country. He questioned the whereabouts of the rice pyramid and demanded accountability from the APC regarding the utilization of funds allocated to agricultural initiatives.
Emphasizing the pressing need to confront the escalating food crisis, Ologunagba urged the government to declare a state of emergency on hunger and take decisive steps to improve food security. He also stressed the importance of addressing security challenges to enable farmers to work without fear, highlighting the interconnection between food production, insecurity, and economic stability.
In a call to action, the PDP representative underscored the critical role of government in ensuring food availability and combating hunger to prevent social unrest and desperation among the populace. He urged the administration to prioritize hunger relief efforts and implement measures to alleviate the suffering of those grappling with food insecurity.
As the nation grapples with the harsh realities of food shortages and economic strains, the PDP’s challenge to the APC serves as a reminder of the government’s responsibility to prioritize the wellbeing of its citizens. The unresolved questions surrounding the fate of the rice pyramids symbolize larger concerns about accountability, transparency, and effective governance in addressing pressing socio-economic issues facing the country. It is imperative for policymakers to heed the call for action and work towards sustainable solutions to ensure adequate food supply and alleviate the plight of vulnerable communities in Nigeria.
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