To ameliorate the poor economic effects arising from the outbreak of Coronavirus,(COVID -19) in Edo state, the Edo Development and Property Agency (EDPA) has commenced the distribution of food and other household items to elderly and vulnerable persons in the state.
Executive Chairman of EDPA, Mrs. Isoken Omo, led other members of the agency to distribute the items in Oredo and Ikpoba – Okha Local Government Areas, assuring that the gesture will be extended to other parts of the state.
Over 1000 packs, tagged, COVID – 19 Survival Pack were distributed in each of the Local Government Areas. Some of the items in each pack include vegetable oil, rice, beans, garri, detergent, spaghetti, salt, sugar, noodles, tin tomatoes, paracetamol, seasonings, beverages, detergents, dishwashing liquid and disinfectant, among others.
According to Mrs.Omo, the distribution of the items has become necessary as most vulnerable persons can no longer afford to feed themselves.
She said the responsibility of providing for the citizens should not be left for the government alone. She therefore solicited for the support of citizens, corporate and private citizens as well as nongovernmental organizations in providing for the needy.
“We plead with public-spirited Nigerians and other Edo citizens to make the stay at home period better for the vulnerable in the society.”She concluded.
The packs were distributed to vulnerable persons at Isibor and Omomo Streets, off Stadium Road. Other areas the team visited include Igbesamwan and Aruosa streets, off Sopkonba Road, African Church Street; Ogbelaka Street; Ekhator Street; Nomayo Street and Oka Market.
Some of the beneficiaries include a 90-year- old man, Mr. John Uwadia, Joseph Igehon, Mrs. Taiwo Igiebor and Mrs. Rose Ehigietor, who thanked the EDPA and Governor Obaseki for the kind gesture. They said the items will go a long way to cushion the effect of COVID-19 pandemic in the State.
They reassured the Governor that the people will continue to support his administration in its efforts at transforming the state and improving livelihoods.
The EDPA team also visited the Edo State Government Children’s Correctional Centre at Ugbekun, off Upper Sokponba Road in Benin City, where sanitizers, cooked food and packs were distributed to the children.
By Besiru Enakhimion.
