Sokoto Govt warns against fertiliser diversion as Kebbe receives 3,600 bags for farmers

The Sokoto State Government has issued a stern warning against the diversion, hoarding, or resale of fertilizers intended for local farmers. This warning comes as the distribution of free agricultural inputs, a key initiative under Governor Ahmed Aliyu's administration, continues across the state. The latest distribution event took place in Kebbe Local Government Area, where six trucks delivered a total of 3,600 bags of fertilizer.

Retired Colonel Garba Moyi Isa, Chairman of the Fertiliser Distribution Committee in Kebbe, explained that this intervention is part of the state government's agricultural support program. The program aims to increase food production, improve farmers' livelihoods, and strengthen food security. Under this plan, each of the 124 polling units in Kebbe will receive 15 bags of NPK fertilizer and five bags of Urea, ensuring equitable distribution among genuine farmers.

“

We have put in place a transparent mechanism to ensure that only genuine farmers benefit from this programme. Anybody found diverting or attempting to sell the fertiliser allocated to farmers will face appropriate sanctions.

Isa emphasized that the fertilizer is provided free of charge and warned that anyone found diverting or selling the commodity would face severe sanctions. He stressed that a transparent mechanism is in place to ensure only legitimate farmers benefit. He also urged community leaders, political stakeholders, ward officials, and security agencies to actively monitor the distribution process and report any instances of abuse.

Hon. Musa Garba Kuchi, Chairman of Kebbe Local Government Area, echoed these sentiments, cautioning against middlemen and speculators exploiting the program. He reiterated that the fertilizer is exclusively for farmers and not for commercial purposes. Kuchi called on beneficiaries to utilize the inputs effectively to enhance crop yields and contribute to the state's agricultural development. Stakeholders present commended the Sokoto State Government for the timely intervention, recognizing its importance amid rising agricultural production costs and the critical need to bolster food security.

“

This fertiliser belongs to the farmers. It is not meant for traders, speculators or middlemen. We will not tolerate any attempt to divert, hoard or resell what government has provided freely to support food production.