Bayelsa State governor, Douye Diri, has ordered investigation into the distribution of palliatives with a view to bringing to book culprits who diverted food items.
Diri gave the directive at the state‘s executive council meeting in the Government House, Yenagoa, following complaints that some individuals diverted the items meant for each ward in the state.
The state government had procured more food items in addition to the five trucks of rice allotted to each state by the federal government as part of the measures to cushion the effect of the removal of petrol subsidy on people of the state.
Each ward was allocated at least 150 bags of rice apart from maize.
In a statement signed by his chief press secretary, Mr Daniel Alabrah, the governor condemned the action of those who reportedly diverted palliatives entrusted to them for distribution in the 105 wards across the state.
He directed the secretary to the state government, Alabo Gideon Ekeuwe, the coordinator of the state Community Safety Corps, Brig-General Eric Angaye (rtd) and the acting chief of staff, Government House, Dr Peter Akpe, to work with relevant bodies to identify those culpable.
Diri urged politicians to be selfless in their conduct and not withhold what is meant for people at the grassroots.
He thanked members of his cabinet for working hard to achieve victory during the November 11 governorship poll in the state, saying that they collectively won the election.
The governor appreciated Bayelsans for their support and show of love during the election, and promised that his administration would work hard to improve the condition of the state.
The Bayelsa helmsman also called on the opposition in the state to concede defeat over the last election, noting that he won legitimately and would defend his victory confidently having won the hearts of Bayelsans through the various policies of his administration.
Diri equally warned troublemakers to toe the path of peace, saying his administration would not condone acts of terrorism and intimidation in the state.