IDPs: Borno orders probe of alleged diversion of rice

The Borno Government has directed security agencies to investigate alleged diversion of large quantities of rice meant for feeding Internally Displaced Persons in the state.

The rice, supplied by the National Emergency Management Agency for the feeding of the IDPs in the state, was allegedly diverted by some government officials.

The directive is contained in a statement issued on Saturday by Malam Isa Gusau, the Special Adviser on Communications and Strategy to Governor Kashim Shettima, in Maiduguri.

Gusau said that the governor gave the directive, while hosting heads of security agencies and members of the State Executive Council to a Ramadan breakfast at the Government House in Maiduguri.

He said that the directive followed widespread allegations that some government functionaries were diverting food supplies meant for the feeding of the IDPs to personal use.

“Governor Kashim Shettima has directed security agents to investigate and arrest anyone found culpable in the alleged diversion of rice meant for the feeding of the IDPs in the state.

“The directive followed the circulation of video clips and still pictures on social media alleging that some officials of the State Emergency Management Agency are re-bagging rice meant for the IDPs’ feeding for onward sales in the market,” he said.

The special adviser said that Shettima, however, blamed the development on certain politicians who were bent on bringing down his administration at all costs.