By Abba Kabara, Gusau
Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development Hajiya Sadiya Umar Farouq has observed that poverty does not discriminate against social, religious or tribal lines.
The minister made the observation on Saturday at a press conference held in Gusau, Zamfara state.
She also denied insinuation that distribution of financial assistance by her ministry is targeted at and meant only for APC members across the country.
According to the minister, all forms of assistance coming from her ministry cover every citizen irrespective of his or her political or religious inclination, adding that there are states in the country that are hundred percent control by the opposition party, PDP “but they receive equal treatment as thier APC counterparts”.
She explained that the APC, led by President Muhamadu Buhari is acting the role of a father whose concern and care cut across all religious and political borders, assuring that the Federal government is ever committed to offer every citizen a fair treatment.
Hajiya Farouq added that the level of achievement so far recorded in Zamfara, for the registration of target beneficiaries of the current distribution of Federal assistance, has reached seventy percent in the state.
She disclosed that the success was achieved through the cooperation and support offered by Governor Bello Matawalle, even as she applauded the governor’s contribution to the success.
She said the delay in the distribution exercise was caused by the cancelation of contracts for the program due to incompetence of the contractors, but expressed optimism that things are now in order, saying the distribution has already begun on Friday.
The minister declared that each beneficiary will receive thirty thousand (N30,000) naira, adding that anything below that amount should be rejected and reported for appropriate action.
