Governor Abubakar Sani Bello of Niger State has warned that he would not take it lightly with any government official or politicians trying to meddle in the sale and distribution of assorted brands of fertilizer meant for farmers for this year’s cropping season.
The governor gave the warning against the backdrop of fears being expressed by farmers over late receipt of fertilizer due to the activities of middlemen, mostly politicians who try to divert the commodities for personal gains.
During the flag-off of the sale and distribution of 15, 000 metric tonnes of assorted brands of fertilizer valued at N1.5 billion for the year’s planting season, Bello warned of dire consequences for any official or group trying to divert the essential farming input in the state.
Bello reminded the farmers during the event for this year’s farming season at Maitunmbi in Bosso Local Government Area of the state that he would hold them accountable should anything go wrong in the distribution and therefore should resist the temptations of selling the highly subsided fertiliser for petty gains.
“Let me warn all farmers to resist the temptations of hoarding and selling the fertiliser for petty gains. Those involved in the distribution exercise should also resist indulgence in shoddy deals and anyone caught will be made to face the consequence of such actions”.
The state Chairman, All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Alhaji Sheri Galadima, had commended efforts by the state government at ensuring that farmers in the state have access to improved seedlings, tractors, fertiliser and extension services.
