Benue Deputy Governor Explains Bread, Action Bitters Giveaway

Benue State Deputy Governor, Sam Ode, has explained the reason behind his distribution of bread, popularly referred to as “Alia Bread,” and bottles of Action Bitters to members of the Idoma community, describing the gesture as a simple act of appreciation rather than a political move.

According to Ireporter Online, Ode made the clarification during a visit to the Living Faith Church in Otukpo, where he addressed the controversy that followed his recent visit to Igumale.

The deputy governor said the bread was shared as a traditional goodwill gesture for residents who turned out in large numbers to welcome him, stressing that it was intended to express gratitude for the warm reception he received.

He noted that the gesture reminded him of childhood experiences when families eagerly anticipated bread and other gifts whenever relatives or visitors returned from trips, adding that such acts had always symbolised kindness and appreciation.

Ode dismissed suggestions that the distribution carried political motives, insisting that the reaction it generated was unnecessary and distracted attention from more pressing matters affecting the state.

He further disclosed that, in addition to the bread and beverages, he also distributed cash to the crowd on the instruction of Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, as part of efforts to appreciate the people for their support.

The deputy governor maintained that public attention should be directed toward issues relating to the welfare, development and security of residents rather than what he described as insignificant controversies.

He reiterated that the gesture was well received by the people and urged critics to focus on matters capable of improving the lives of citizens instead of creating unnecessary debates over an act of goodwill.