The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, on Monday, distributed grains to aged and vulnerable residents in his domain, urging the Federal Government to consider channelling palliatives to poor Nigerians through traditional rulers.
Oba Akanbi, who visited Molaasan Royal Compound, among other compounds in Iwo, where he personally handed out 5kg bags of rice and cash sums to many vulnerable residents, said monarchs would not discriminate in the sharing of such items.
The Oluwo expressed concern that many of the post-fuel subsidy removal interventions of the Federal Government were not being felt by the underprivileged.
He said, “Traditional rulers serve as a link between the government and the people. You can see that I went to my people in their respective homes. I didn’t send anyone to them. That is to show the government that traditional rulers can go as far as meeting people in their respective houses because we are the closest to the grassroots.
“I was in Aso Villa to listen to the President. He has good plans and that is why we are imploring Nigerians in this time of rebirth, at the time of digging a new foundation, it is always hard, but before long, the sufferings will end. During this trying time, the rich should help the poor so that we can all grow together and fight the corruption in the land.”
Asked if the Federal Government could start channeling palliatives for the underprivileged through royal fathers, Oba Akanbi said, “It is the traditional rulers that can actually reach out to people. People must be sincere in what they do. If they see that the traditional rulers can reach their people, why not? Like me, I didn’t discriminate in my sharing. I give the food to those who need it. You can see the love they showed to me.” (Punch)
