Ohigbo Amagu, Nigeria – Chief Ken Eze, the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator representing Ebonyi Central at the National Assembly, says he will distribute empowerment items to his constituents through polling units, to avoid stampede.
Eze made the decision at his home in Ohigbo Amagu, Ezza South Local Government Area (LGA) of the state while feting his constituents in the spirit of the yuletide.
Eze, the Senate Committee Chairman on Information and National Orientation, said the decision was to prevent unpleasant situations due to the massive turnout of his constituents.
“I am delighted that my people are happy with me but we cannot let a good intention turn awry.
“The distribution will be structured according to LGAs and effected through various political wards of the district.
“I have consulted stakeholders and party leaders in the senatorial district to ensure that the distribution goes through polling units”.
He noted that he had enough rice and other empowerment items to distribute to the constituents but would not do so under such awry environment.
“Stampedes have occured in many places across the nation and we don’t want such to occur here.
“I will offer transportation money to take you home as we have more than enough items to share.”
Eze further announced that Gov. Francis Nwifuru outlined the best format for the distribution and such further altered the distribution plans.
“The governor gave me a guide and as a loyal servant, I will obey him.
“We are also mindful of your security with available reports indicating that some people are hanging around to waylay you over the items.
“Such would amount to losses as we would not even disclose the LGA that the distribution would commence with.”
In his remarks, Gov. Nwifuru praised Eze for initiating the empowerment programme, noting that it will assist in uplifting the people’s economic wellbeing.
“I applaud all the National Assembly members from Ebonyi for their good performances as this is the first time we are witnessing such.
“They are performing greatly in human empowerment and infrastructural development and the people are very happy.
“They are also united and cooperating marvellously despite political party by affiliations.
The event attracted top government functionaries from the state and beyond.
The items to be distributed include: rice, tricycles, motorcycles, grinding machines, and vehicles among others.
