It is estimated that Nigeria’s population is about 200 million. Sadly, the National Bureau of Statistics announced that over 133 million Nigerians are living in abject poverty.
Historically, there has been progression in hunger statistics in the country fuelling insecurity and despondency, poverty and deprivation in the land.
Today, hunger continues to weave itself into the daily reality of Nigeria`s poorest children especially those caught up in the conflicts which are rapidly and rapaciously eating up large swathes of the country.
As part of efforts to bring succour to many homes in Edo state, especially at Christmas, Edo state-born philanthropist, and politician, Barrister Ken Imansuangbon took it upon himself in the last 18 years to provide free Rice to families and individuals across the 18 local government area of Edo state.
The colourful politician and former People’s Democratic Party, PDP governorship aspirant despite the economic crunch sustained over a decade legacy when truckload of free rice berthed in his Esan South East Local Government Area of Edo State, last Friday, 16th December, 2022 where he commenced the exercise.
His love and passion to put smiles on the faces of Edo citizens and Nigeria earned him the nickname ‘Riceman’ which has made him a household name among many especially the poor who look forward to his yearly free rice distribution.
He also used the opportunity to propagate the quality of his party’s presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar and his running mate Ifeanyi Okowa at every nook and cranny where the rice train stops.
He told the people to vote out the ruling All Progressives Congress for inflicting pain and suffering on the masses.
The PDP chieftain said Atiku has promised to provide $10bn for youth empowerment, revive the refinery, ensure adequate power supply and secure the country.
“We are reaching out to over 50, 000 persons in this year’s distribution of rice. Edo is ready for the Atiku/Okowa presidency. We must come out en mass and vote for the ‘unifier’
“Besides, we will soon embark on a door-to-door campaign in villages across the state. Our target is to get 80 percent of the votes in Edo.”
In Uhunwonde, Orhionmwon, and Ikpoba Okha Local Government Areas of the state, the former governorship aspirant told the surging crowd that when Atiku becomes President by the grace of God hunger and poverty will be defeated.
One of the lucky beneficiaries, Imafidon Ighomaye, said, “ we are happy with Imansuagbon for coming to share rice every year. He has shown us love and for that my entire family will vote for Atiku and the PDP come 2023 presidential.
At Uhogua, in Ovia South West Local Government Area of Edo state, where thousands of Internally Displaced Persons, IDP camp is located, also benefited from the humanitarian gesture of Imansuagbon.
The thousands of hungry children on sighting the truckload of food items sang songs of praise lauding him for his good deeds towards them in the past years and praying that he achieves his life ambition.
The coordinator of the camp, Pastor Solomon Folorunsho, recalled his good deeds to the inhabitants of the facility over the years and prayed that he succeeds in all his life endeavours.
Responding, Barr Imansuangbon thanked him and praised him for the good job he has been doing, taking care of the inhabitants who are predominantly victims of the Boko Haram onslaught in the North East District of the country, some of whom he (Folorunsho) have trained to become professionals in different careers even as some are students of acclaimed A list tertiary institutions across the country.
He charged them to vote for Atiku and his running mate Okowa in the 2023 Presidential poll as they have what it takes to solve the myriad of problems facing the country.
He further supported the facility with cash donations which included his wife, Kate’s annual vote for the educational upliftment of the kids in the facility.
Imansuagbon said, “My love for the Edo people is natural, it is not defined by political consideration, religion or tribe or economic status of the people.
“I have been to mosques, churches, and the open streets to give rice to the people. So, my love for the Edo people is from God and deep in my heart. Politics will come and go, but my love for my people remains.”
We’ve got the edge. Get real-time reports, breaking scoops, and exclusive angles delivered straight to your phone. Don’t settle for stale news. Join LEADERSHIP NEWS on WhatsApp for 24/7 updates →
Join Our WhatsApp Channel
