Delta Priest Slams APC Government Over Rice Distribution to Electorates

A Catholic priest from the Diocese of Warri in Delta State has criticized the APC-led Federal Government over the distribution of branded bags of rice to citizens, describing the practice as a misplaced priority amid Nigeria's worsening economic challenges.

According to reports and a widely circulated video, the priest rejected a 50kg bag of rice bearing President Bola Tinubu's image and the "Renewed Hope Ambassadors" branding. He said the rice had been given to him to distribute among members of his parish but instead used the opportunity to condemn what he described as "primitive governance."

The cleric argued that rather than spending public resources on distributing food items—especially as political activities intensify—the government should focus on long-term solutions such as:

Creating jobs and boosting economic growth.

Improving infrastructure.

Addressing inflation and the rising cost of living.

Strengthening social welfare through sustainable policies.

He questioned the amount of public money allegedly being spent on purchasing and distributing branded rice, insisting that such funds could be invested in projects that would have a lasting impact on citizens' lives. The priest also suggested that handouts tend to become more common as elections approach, raising concerns about the use of palliatives in the political process.

The remarks have generated widespread debate on social media, with some Nigerians supporting the priest's call for sustainable economic reforms, while others argue that food palliatives still provide immediate relief for vulnerable households facing hardship.