Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North Senatorial District, has addressed rumors surrounding the distribution of rice in his constituency, specifically denying that the bags of rice were donated by the federal government. In response to speculations about the origin of the rice, which carried the image of the former Abia governor, Kalu clarified the source in a video release.
Contrary to claims that the rice was provided by the federal government for distribution by senators, Kalu stated, “The rice I shared in Igbere, carrying my picture is a normal rice that Orji Uzor Kalu Foundation has been giving since 1986.” He emphasized that the Orji Uzor Kalu Foundation, a non-governmental organization, has consistently sponsored such initiatives for decades.
As the former Chief Whip of the Senate, Kalu asserted that the distributed rice was not sourced from the Senate. He clarified the timing, stating, “Today is 14th January 2024. If we will collect rice, unless we will collect it tomorrow, but as of now, I have not collected any rice from the Senate.”
Sen. Kalu mentioned that donations from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) had already been distributed, urging his constituents to disregard the circulating rumors.
The former Governor had recently distributed 25,000 bags of rice and cash grants in Igbere, his hometown, as part of efforts to enable his constituents to celebrate the yuletide season.