Breaking News:Lagos Government Suspends Ounje Eko Food Subsidy Programme Over Vendor Manipulations
The Lagos State government has temporarily suspended the second phase of its Ounje Eko initiative, aimed at subsidising food costs for residents, due to manipulations by participating vendors. The suspension was announced by Gbolahan Yishawu, the lawmaker representing Eti-Osa Constituency 02, during the 11th Eti-Osa Constituency Town Hall meeting.
Yishawu explained that the initiative, initially designed to help Lagosians purchase food at discounted prices, was undermined by vendors who hijacked the system, derailing the government's effort to support residents facing rising food inflation.
Launched in March 2024, the first phase of Ounje Eko successfully provided relief across 57 local government areas. However, the second phase, which began in August, has been put on hold to address the shortcomings.
Despite the suspension, Yishawu assured residents that the programme would resume after necessary adjustments are made, continuing to offer essential food items like rice, beans, and eggs at a 25 percent discount.
The initiative, which operated in communities such as Ketu, Lekki Phase 1, and Epe, had provided a vital lifeline to many Lagosians struggling with food inflation, which currently stands at over 40 percent. Initially planned to run for eight weeks across 64 locations, the suspension leaves many residents awaiting its return.