By Lukman Omikunle
“Hunger is not good in the body, reason why we pulled resources together to cater for our people.’’
From door-to-door, nook and cranny, a six-hour marathon exercise – The Ota Gravity Group, a coalition of natives of Ota in Ado-Odo/ Ota Local Government area of Ogun State, on Sunday, distributed relief materials to over 300 aged, indigenous and vulnerable residents in the ancient town as part of its effort in alleviating effect of hunger amid COVID-19 lockdown in the state.
The non-government organization also distributed nose masks to hundreds of residents to support the government in its efforts to curb the spread of the deadly coronavirus in the local government and its environs.
High Chief Ganiu Dada, the Oluwo Itoki of Ota and one of the coordinators of the group, speaking to newsheadline247.com said the group’s humanitarian activities on Sunday became necessary amid lockdown to lessen hunger, particularly among the less privileged aged, widows and those with acute health challenges.
“Ota Gravity Group, which comprises of Ota indigenes both at home and in diaspora felt the pains and agony of our people in this lockdown. People are hungry at home and it is not safe outside.
“There is a need for them to keep staying indoor to help the government in the fight the spread of the deadly virus. At the same time, they have to feed.”
“Hunger is not good in the body, reason why we pulled resources together to cater for our people,’’ he said.
Dada, a successful businessman, also called on to other philanthropists and good people in the local government to emulate Ota Gravity Group in supporting the government in the battle against COVID-19 and most especially by taking care of the less privileged and aged in their respective communities.
“This is the time the people need their support most and failure to extend their hands of humanitarian assistance renders their wealth meaningless,” he said.
The Awori high chief further urged the people to comply with government orders and directives on the ongoing battle against the global disease. He advised residents to continue with the social distancing, use of face masks and sanitize their hands regularly.
Popular grassroots politician Hon. Segun Ojolowo-Ojuko, who is also a member of the group told reporters that Ota Gravity Group has, at this point in time, embarked on endless selfless service to humanity adding that Sunday’s activity was the group’s third in the wake of COVID-19 lockdown.
Ojolowo-Ojuko further stated that the group will not relent as there are plans to revisit the people again with relief materials and other related support materials in the fight against coronavirus. He added that the group’s service to humanity, as it has always been, continues after the lockdown.
A notable member of the group who participated in the 6-hour marathon exercise was the immediate past and two-term member of Ogun State House of Assembly, Hon. Aina Akinpelu, the current Commissioner II of the Ogun State Judicial Service Commission.
Also in the train was Senior Special Assistant to the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Hon. Kola Rahmon Salako. Others are Chief Mrs Abina, the Iyalaje of Ota Aworiland, Mr Wale Adenuga and several others
Photo Credit – Voice of Awori
