Rejoinder: Setting the record straight on fertilizer distribution in Katsina State
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The attention of the Katsina State Government has been drawn to a recent publication by BudgIT Foundation through its subsidiary, TrackaNG alleging mismanagement in the distribution of fertilizers meant for a constituency project in Batagarawa/Charanchi/Rimi Federal Constituency. We categorically refute these claims and wish to set the record straight.
The fertilizers in question, allocated under the 2024 federal government budget, were distributed transparently and equitably to genuine farmers across the constituency. Contrary to the allegations, these agricultural inputs were not shared among party loyalists or friends, but were given to recognized farmers’ associations and individuals with proven track records in agriculture as a means of livelihood.
We emphatically state that there is no instance where the lawmaker presented this fertilizer as a personal donation. Such insinuations are merely fictitious imaginations of the accusers. The branding on the fertilizer bags, which includes images of the lawmaker and Governor Radda, serves a crucial purpose of ensuring transparency and accountability. It clearly identifies the source of the fertilizer as a government project, preventing any potential misappropriation or resale. Furthermore, the inscription “NOT FOR SALE” on the bags reinforces this message, protecting the interests of the intended beneficiaries.
To corroborate this, spokespersons from the Association of Farmers across the three local government areas have come forward to exonerate the government from these allegations. Alhaji Umar Abdullahi from Batagarawa stated, “We received the fertilizers based on our farming needs, not political affiliations.”
Similarly, Mallam Ibrahim Sani from Charanchi added, “The distribution was fair and reached farmers who truly needed the support.” Hajiya Amina Yusuf from Rimi emphasized, “This initiative has significantly boosted our agricultural productivity, regardless of any political leanings.”
To verify the facts further, the interview was conducted with Alhaji Abubakar from Rimi Local Government Area during the distribution, he confirmed receiving three bags of fertilizer, which he has already applied to his plantation. He expressed gratitude for the timely intervention, as he was in dire need of fertilizer for his crops.
To further clarify all doubting Thomases, the beneficiaries of this fertilizer include community leaders, smallholder farmers, and other less privileged individuals across the three local governments, irrespective of political affiliations. This diverse distribution underscores our commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity throughout the area.
It is important to note that this is not the first time Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has distributed fertilizers and other farm inputs to alleviate the people’s hardships and boost agricultural productivity. This consistent support for the agricultural sector demonstrates the government’s commitment to the welfare of farmers and the overall development of Katsina State.
We wish to emphasize that this project has been executed to the highest standards, meeting all the requirements set forth in the budget allocation. The distribution process was transparent, efficient, and reached the intended beneficiaries as planned.
We urge the public to disregard these baseless allegations, the Katsina State Government, under the leadership of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda PhD CON, remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the equitable distribution of resources to benefit all citizens.
We welcome any legitimate inquiries into this matter and stand ready to provide further clarification if needed.
Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed is the
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of
Katsina State.
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