By Deborah Coker
Former President of Trade Union Congress (TUC), Peter Esele, on Friday donated 230 bags of rice to Ologua community, Ohordua, Esan South East Local Government Area of Edo.
Esele said that the donation was his widow’s might to the vulnerable and less privileged in the community ahead of Christmas celebration.
He also said the rice gesture which commenced in 2015 and had become an annual event was one of his own ways of given back to the community where he was nurtured.
“There is no better time to identify with the poor, vulnerable and needy in the society and show them love than now.
“The Christmas season and celebration is a period so many people look forward to.
“While some will have all they need to celebrate, many others will not, especially at this point in the nation’s history, when even the most affordable food items some years back like rice are now beyond the reach of many.
“So it is my belief that this little contribution from me, will be able to make an impact in those homes that celebrating Christmas has hitherto seemed a mirage,” he said.
Esele, who is also a civil society activist, said every household in the Ologua community and its environs would benefit from the 230 bags of rice.
Meanwhile some beneficiaries who could not hide their joy poured prayers on the donor and his family and expressed their satisfaction and appreciation.
They called on other well meaning Nigerians in the society to emulate the gesture and reaching out to the poor, vulnerable and less privileged during festivities with a view to alleviating the suffering of the common man.
Mrs Anthonia Imhanlu, and Mr Smart Imhanmualu both beneficiaries urged rich sons and daughters of the community to identify with the vulnerable and less privileged in the community.
“We know that things are hard for everybody but a little love during this Christmas from our rich and well placed sons and daughters will go a long way for us,” they said.