Benue State Deputy Governor, Sam Ode, has explained the reason behind his distribution of bread, popularly dubbed ‘Alia Bread’ and an alcoholic beverage, Action Bitters, to members of the Idoma community.

He described the gesture as a simple token of appreciation rather than a political stunt.

Speaking during a visit to the Living Faith Church, Otukpo, Ode dismissed the controversy that trailed the distribution, insisting that the focus should be on the government’s efforts to improve the welfare and security of the people.

According to him, the bread was shared as a traditional gesture of goodwill to residents who came out to welcome him during his recent visit to Igumale.

“The controversy over whether I gave bread to the people is not an issue,” the Deputy Governor said.

“When we were young, whenever our parents travelled or visitors came, what we looked forward to receiving was bread. It was a token which I took to the people who came to receive me. They were happy. They were dancing.”

He disclosed that, beyond the bread, he also distributed money to the crowd on the directive of Governor Hyacinth Alia.

“I gave them something else like money, which the Governor said I should give to them,” he added.

Ode maintained that there was no reason for the public debate generated by the gesture.

“And so there is no controversy over that. At least it’s better than giving them wee wee,” he remarked.

The Deputy Governor urged critics to concentrate on issues that directly affect the lives of the people rather than what he described as mundane distractions.

“We want to talk about issues, not those mundane things. What is important is that we are embracing the challenges of the people. We are listening to them and we are trying to address those issues, those things that are of concern to them, because they voted us into office for their welfare and security, and that we are committed to do,” he said.

Ode noted that his visit to the area was primarily to carry out Governor Alia’s directive to inspect the Igumale Cement Factory and Benue Burnt Bricks as part of efforts to revive the moribund industries and create jobs for the people.