By; SULAIMAN AHMED MISAU, Katsina
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State has issued Food Security (Promotion) Order, effectively prohibiting illegal hoarding of food and essential commodities within the state.
The order according to his Chief Press Secretary, Mohammed Kaula sends a clear message that, the State Government would not tolerate practices that, threaten the well-being of residents in the State.
The order, however, defines food commodities as including staple grains like rice, millet, maize, sorghum, cowpeas, and groundnuts. “Hoarding these items will now be punishable,” the governor said.
Governor Dikko Radda explained that, the contravention of this Order by any person shall render :- “(i)The person and/or corporate entity in such contravention is liable for prosecution under Section 114 of the Penal Code Law of the State.
(ii) The place used for the hoarding of the commodity shall, by warrant issued by the Court, be liable to be broken into, and the commodity be sold to the public at a controlled price.
(iii) The proceeds of such sale shall be subject to determination in accordance with the prevailing laws on proceeds of crime.”
Consequently, the governor said to ensure effective enforcement, the order establishes a dedicated “Task Force” consisting diverse group of individuals who would be responsible for:- (I) Identify food commodity hoarders within the State; (ii) Engage with stakeholders on food prices in the state; (iii) In collaboration with Security Agencies, arrest and prosecute violators of this Order and (iv) Control the buying and transporting of food commodities within and outside the state, including international borders.
“Similarly, (v) to do all other things incidental or necessary for the enforcement of the provisions of this Order.”
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda
emphasized the collaborative nature of the initiative, said, “We call upon all citizens, traders, and stakeholders to join us in this fight against food insecurity.
“By working together, we can ensure that everyone in Katsina has access to the food they need,” Governor Radda explained.
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