Rep. I. D. Gyang Calls for Expansion & Sustainability of FG Assistance to Crisis States

Amb. Friday Bako
Viewpoint Nigeria
17th May, 2018

TEN BILLION NAIRA (#10bn) FG FUND TO REBUILD COMMUNITIES DESTROYED BY HERDSMEN ATTACKS.

The FG has approved the release of the sum of Ten Billion Naira (#10bn) to  rehabilitate, rebuild and secure communities destroyed by herdsmen attacks. The initiative also includes the recovery and return of occupied farmlands to the owners.

This decision came to light during Vice President Osinbajo’s visit to IDP camps in Benue State on Tuesday 15/05/18.

The development aligns with earlier calls by Nigerians and members of the National Assembly especially those of us whose constituencies are hard hit by the attacks.
I have repeatedly through Motions and public statements made this same call and demand. The response of the President is positive and has been long awaited.

The next critical issue would be the implementation process, the success of which  requires constructive engagement and consultation with the relevant stakeholders in the affected states and communities.

In Plateau State for instance, Barkin Ladi and Riyom LGs, the very constituency which I represent  have more than 45 destroyed and displaced communities. This is in addition to the recent ugly killings and  displacements of Daffo in Bokkos LG and Miango in Bassa LG.

Given the massive devastation occasion by the attacks in Plateau, Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, Kogi, Southern Kaduna, Zamfara etc, the #10bn is a far cry in meeting the demand on ground.
To make for the desired impact, the initiative has to be expanded and sustained. Doing this will allay fears that the policy was a partisan devise to secure  a return bid and the needed votes for the President in the 2019 elections.

I am therefore urging Mr President to ensure an all inclusive implementation in  rebuilding the affected communities and recover all occupied farmlands across the affected states and in particular, communities in Plateau State that have been in the eye of the storm for over a decade.

Rep ID Gyang,
NASS, Abuja.

count | 59

Rep. I. D. Gyang Calls for Expansion & Sustainability of FG Assistance to Crisis States