The Benue State Deputy Governor, Sam Ode, has explained why he distributed bread, popularly known as ‘Alia Bread’, and Action Bitters to members of the Idoma community, saying the items were presented as a gesture of appreciation to residents who came out to welcome him.
Speaking during a visit to the Living Faith Church in Otukpo, Ode dismissed the controversy surrounding the distribution, insisting that greater attention should be given to the government’s efforts to improve the welfare and security of Benue residents.
According to the deputy governor, the bread was shared as a traditional gesture of goodwill during his recent visit to Igumale.
“The controversy over whether I gave bread to the people is not an issue,” Ode said.
“When we were young, whenever our parents travelled or visitors came, what we looked forward to receiving was bread. It was a token which I took to the people who came to receive me. They were happy. They were dancing.”
He also disclosed that he distributed cash to the crowd on the directive of Governor Hyacinth Alia.
“I gave them something else like money, which the Governor said I should give to them,” he added.
Ode maintained that the gesture should not be a subject of public debate.
“And so there is no controversy over that. At least it’s better than giving them wee wee,” he remarked.
The deputy governor urged critics to focus on matters affecting the people instead of what he described as distractions.
“We want to talk about issues, not those mundane things. What is important is that we are embracing the challenges of the people. We are listening to them and we are trying to address those issues, those things that are of concern to them, because they voted us into office for their welfare and security, and that we are committed to do,” he said.
Ode explained that his visit to the area was primarily to carry out Governor Alia’s directive to inspect the Igumale Cement Factory and Benue Burnt Bricks as part of plans to revive the facilities and create employment opportunities for residents.