Thieves have stormed the farm belonging to the Nasarawa State Government, carting away harvested rice paddies from the 10,000 hectares farm.
LEADERSHIP recalls that the state government in October commenced the harvest of the rice farm located in the Jangwa community of Awe Local Government Area of the state.
Governor Abdullahi Sule who had visited the farm to monitor the harvest, said 2,000 hectares of the land which was planted seven months ago, was being harvested to ensure food security in the state.
He said the project was in line with the Renewed Hope Initiative of President Bola Tinubu-led administration which is aimed at tackling hunger in the country.
However, the governor on Friday alerted the public that the harvested rice is being stolen by some unscrupulous elements.
Governor Sule who raised the alarm through a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Addra, described the development as unfortunate and sad.
“Whereas the state government is pleased with the yield recorded, it is however saddened by the level of theft recorded during the harvest,” he was quoted to have said.
Governor Sule was said to have expressed his displeasure over the development when he received a delegation of sons and daughters of Azara community led by HRH Sarkin Azara, Dr. Kabiru Musa Ibrahim who were on a thank you visit.
He however assured that, “We will not be deterred. We are determined that Nasarawa State being an agricultural state; that government must be at the forefront in agricultural activities.”
He warned those engaged in the unwholesome practice to desist henceforth, warning that government will not hesitate to deal decisively with anyone caught.
Governor Sule also thanked the traditional rulers and people of the area for their cooperation towards the success recorded on the farm.
