The Department of State Services (DSS) has recovered 2,000 bags of rice from 20 trucks donated by the Nigerian government, according to reports from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
The rice, intended to alleviate economic hardship, was allegedly diverted by officials from the Katsina State government.
DSS operatives, who confirmed the recovery, chose to remain anonymous and provided no further comments.
NAN investigations revealed that the 25kg bags of rice were discovered at Katsina’s Central Market following a tip-off received on Wednesday night.
Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) Chairman, Abdulrahman Abdullahi, expressed shock and dismay over the diversion, calling for a thorough investigation and accountability.
He pledged to pursue the matter to its logical conclusion to ensure justice for the vulnerable affected by the diversion.
Local resident Suleiman Kofar-Durbi described the situation as “unfortunate,” urging the government to hold the perpetrators accountable amid the severe economic conditions.
Alhaji Shehu Usman, Chairman of the Market Traders Association, noted that the rice was brought into the market by a non-trader, urging caution among traders regarding such activities.
Responding to the incident, Aliyu Abdullahi, Principal Private Secretary to Governor Dikko Radda, clarified that the rice was allocated to the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, by the Federal Government.
The minister had instructed the Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure Development, Alhaji Nasiru Lawal, to store the rice, who opted to keep it in the market for safekeeping, amounting to 1,200 bags.
