Adamawa State is reeling from public anger after disturbing videos and images on social media revealed that expired spaghetti and rice were distributed as relief items to flood victims by the Adamawa State Ministry of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, Reintegration and Humanitarian Services and the Adamawa State Emergency Management Agency (ADSEMA).
The revelations have sparked outrage and raised serious questions over the safety of vulnerable citizens and the accountability of those overseeing humanitarian aid.
Beneficiaries, expecting vital support in the aftermath of devastating floods, were shocked to find that some of the food items had already passed their expiration dates. Critics have described the negligence as a betrayal of public trust and a dangerous health risk, especially for children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.
Human rights activist and disaster manager, Comrade Suleiman A. Abubakar, condemned the development, saying, “The government’s failure to ensure the quality of relief items is unacceptable and endangers lives.”
Experts warn that consuming expired food could lead to food poisoning, severe stomach infections, and malnutrition conditions that could further strain the state’s already overburdened healthcare system. Legal analysts have suggested that the oversight may breach food safety regulations and amount to a violation of the government’s duty of care, potentially leading to prosecutions.
Abubakar has called on the state government to urgently investigate the matter, identify those responsible for the procurement and distribution of the expired items, and reform its relief distribution process to guarantee safety and quality. He also urged authorities to establish a transparent system for beneficiaries to report issues with aid.
“This is not just about food, it’s about trust,” Abubakar stressed. “The citizens of Adamawa State deserve better.”
As public pressure mounts, the Adamawa State Government faces a critical test to restore confidence in its humanitarian efforts and ensure that aid meant to alleviate suffering does not become another source of harm.
