The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested some officials of the Nasarawa State Emergency Agency (NASEMA) and other individuals over the diversion and sale of palliatives meant for vulnerable citizens in the state to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal.
Some of the suspects were arrested at a popular market in Lafia, Nasarawa State capital where the items were being resold.
Recall that the Federal Government last month approved the release of N5 billion each to the 36 states for the purchase of food items and others for vulnerable Nigerians following the removal of fuel subsidy in the country.
Spokesman of the secret police, Peter Afunanya, while confirming the development in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja said the agency received reports from some state governments about the diversion or sale of palliatives meant for their citizens.
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He further called on members of the public who may have information relating to the emerging trend to report same to the relevant security agencies for necessary action, saying the culprits would be punished according to laws.
Afunanya said;
“The Department of State Services (DSS) has received reports from some State Governments relating to the diversion or sale of palliatives meant for their citizens.
“Consequently, the Service undertook investigations in that regard and has recovered some of the items as well as apprehended the suspects.”
