In a compassionate response to the plight of its displaced citizens, the Ebonyi State Government has extended financial support to approximately 800 indigenes affected by the recent Lagos State demolition exercise in Ilaje Otumara. Governor Francis Nwifuru approved the disbursement of N200,000 to each affected individual to help them rebuild their lives.
The beneficiaries, predominantly women and children who were evacuated four weeks ago, had been facing severe economic hardship after losing their homes and sources of livelihood in Lagos. Many arrived in Ebonyi with nothing, forced to start life anew.
Charity Okeosisi, one of the recipients, described the traumatic experience: “We lost everything we worked for years to build. Returning home empty-handed was devastating.” She expressed profound gratitude for the governor’s intervention, which came at a critical time when many families were struggling to feed themselves.
Martina Ofoke, another beneficiary, praised the state’s swift action: “This support means we can at least put food on our tables while we figure out our next steps.” Other recipients appealed for additional empowerment programs to help them establish sustainable means of livelihood in their home state.
Valentine Okike-Uzo, Commissioner for Special Duties and Ebonyi State Diaspora Focal Person, personally distributed the relief funds. He assured victims that the government remains committed to their welfare and is developing further resettlement programs.
“This assistance is just the beginning,” Okike-Uzo stated. “We are working on comprehensive support systems to properly reintegrate our brothers and sisters into Ebonyi’s economy.” He urged beneficiaries to use the funds judiciously and maintain good conduct as they resettle in their communities.
