By Joy Onu
Alu (Kogi State) – Hon. Leke Abejide, member of the House of Representatives representing Yagba East/Yagba West/Mopa‑Muro Federal Constituency and National Leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has distributed a total of N710 million in development grants to 71 community development associations across his federal constituency, doubling the allocation from N5 million to N10 million per community. The disclosure was contained in a statement issued to the media by the Kogi State Secretary of the ADC, Hon. Mamman Akpena.
Abejide announced the enhanced funding at the flag-off of his annual Christmas outreach to communities in the Western Senatorial District, held at his country home in Alu. The event also featured the distribution of food items and cash gifts to residents as part of the festive celebration.
Speaking at the gathering, the ADC leader explained that his decision followed a review of requests submitted by community development associations, most of which were focused on critical grassroots development projects. He said providing direct grants would enable communities to execute such projects without delays.
According to him, the funds are being released as a revolving grant, with N10 million to be paid directly into the accounts of each of the 71 communities to ensure projects are not stalled due to funding challenges.
Abejide disclosed that N5 million had already been disbursed to each community, while an additional N5 million is expected to be released by April next year, bringing the total intervention to N710 million.
“I observed that virtually all the community development associations want me to be with them at the end of every year, which is not always possible. Supporting key development projects directly will bring lasting relief to our communities,” he said.
He called on well-meaning individuals in both the public and private sectors to support grassroots development by investing in their home communities, noting that collective efforts would accelerate growth across the constituency.
On the political front, Abejide dismissed reports suggesting the ADC would not fully participate in upcoming elections. He assured supporters that the party would field candidates for all elective offices, except the presidency, describing contrary claims as false and misleading.
The programme attracted party supporters, community leaders and residents from across the Western Senatorial District, with the distribution of Christmas food items and cash to selected support groups serving as the highlight of the event.
