IHRC-RFT Urges FG to Rethink Funding Governors for Food Purchases
By Mustapha Salisu
The International Human Rights Commission – Relief Fund Trust (IHRC-RFT) Nigeria Chapter has called on the federal government to reconsider its plan to provide funds to state governors for food purchases.
PRIME TIME NEWS reports, the organization expressed concerns that the plan could lead to food price inflation and worsen the economic situation of many Nigerians.
According to a press release issued to newsmen by the country director of IHRC-RFT, Ambassador Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu, He stated that the available food in Nigeria is insufficient, and injecting large sums of money into the market to purchase food could significantly increase food prices, exacerbating the existing inflation in food prices.
Ambassador Adamu further explained that substantial funds allocated for food purchases can create artificial demand, leading to price hikes and further inflation, which would worsen the economic condition of many Nigerians who are already struggling with high living costs.
While acknowledging the intention of providing emergency aid, IHRC-RFT Nigeria Chapter believes that long-term and sustainable solutions are crucial for effectively addressing food scarcity.
“The organization recommends investing in agriculture, improving food supply chains, and implementing targeted direct assistance programs for those in need” He said.
Ambassador Adamu emphasized that this approach aligns with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), particularly Article 25, which states that everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of themselves and their family, including food, and Article 28, which states that everyone is entitled to a social and international order in which the rights and freedoms set forth in this Declaration can be fully realized.
“IHRC-RFT Nigeria Chapter remains ready to support the federal government’s efforts and is keen to collaborate on finding sustainable solutions to enhance food security in Nigeria” Bakoji assured.
