The Rivers State Government has officially established a 40-member Palliatives Committee and distributed a total of 16,800 bags of rice

On Monday, the Rivers State government inaugurated a 40-member committee tasked with the responsibility of ensuring the equitable distribution of palliatives aimed at alleviating the adverse impact of the subsidy removal policy.

Led by former Nigerian Ambassador to South Korea, Desmond Akawor, the committee has received a total of 16,800 50kg bags of rice for distribution among the most vulnerable individuals across the 23 local government areas of the state.

Ambassador Akawor, who also serves as the Rivers State Chairman of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), revealed that the distribution of the rice would be organized based on the ward structure, with each of the 319 wards in the state receiving fifty bags of rice each.

He mentioned that the over 16,000 bags of rice were provided by the Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF), and he also noted that there were additional undisclosed bags of maize expected to arrive soon, aimed at alleviating the suffering faced by some less fortunate citizens.

Speaking during the inauguration ceremony in Port Harcourt, the state capital, Akawor stated, "Expectations are high. We are all aware that, following the removal of fuel subsidies, people are enduring considerable hardships. Various groups, including the Federal Government, have stepped up to provide support."

"The Governors' Forum has also extended their support. His Excellency, Governor Siminilaye Fubara emphasizes the importance of reaching the most vulnerable individuals at the grassroots level with these resources. That's why we've expanded the committee's membership," he stated.

The committee's chairman pointed out that it would be more efficient for the Local Government chairmen to handle the logistical aspects of distributing the palliatives. He explained, "What we have gathered at the state level should be duplicated at the local government level. The representatives of the Civil Society Organizations (CSO) at the state level should ensure that their counterparts at the local government level do the same.

"This might be the initial phase, and we will follow the same framework for other items that are forthcoming. Our goal is to reach those who are genuinely in need. From the Governors' Forum, we are receiving 16,800 kg bags of rice. We have collectively agreed that by organizing the distribution at the ward level, each ward will receive approximately 50 bags from this contribution.

"Whatever remains, approximately 850 bags, will be earmarked for the physically challenged. As more items become available, we will employ the same method. Additionally, we will establish a monitoring team to ensure proper oversight of these resources."

Akawor emphasized that despite holding the position of the state chairman for the PDP, the distribution process would remain apolitical. He stated, "This initiative is entirely non-political and not aligned with any specific political party. The resources brought here are intended for the benefit of the people of Rivers State. Following this distribution of rice, we anticipate receiving additional supplies of maize. However, the exact quantity of maize bags has not been specified."

The committee consists of representatives from diverse political parties, religious leaders, labor leaders, traditional authorities, and members of the media.