By Samuel Sunday
Bishop Oluwaseun Fagbohun has taken a bold step against rising hardship in Ekiti State, launching a “Food Bank” initiative designed to tackle hunger while steering citizens toward responsible voting ahead of the forthcoming election.
The cleric unveiled the programme in Ado Ekiti at a press conference organised under The Righteous Movement (TRIPOM), describing the initiative as both a humanitarian intervention and a civic advocacy platform aimed at reshaping public consciousness.
Fagbohun said the project goes beyond conventional food distribution, positioning it as a “solution centre” where people can access a wide range of support, including education, healthcare, counselling, and financial assistance. He stressed that the goal is to restore dignity and stability among struggling residents.
He explained that the term “food” is symbolic, representing different needs for different individuals. According to him, while some people may require physical food, others may need scholarships, empowerment opportunities, or spiritual guidance.
The bishop emphasized that the initiative will not operate as an open distribution system. He said the “bank” structure is guided by strict protocols, including registration and verification processes, to ensure that only those who genuinely need help benefit from the programme.
Backed by the Old Catholic International Missionary Society of St. Christopher and the Caritas Sustainable Development Foundation, the initiative also partners with institutions such as OCAC College in Abuja, Kafon Microfinance Bank, Queen Elizabeth College of Health Sciences, and the Old Catholic Apostolic Church in Nigeria, alongside international collaborators in the United Kingdom, Canada, and Japan.
Fagbohun revealed that the programme will extend beyond Ado Ekiti to all local government areas in the state, with additional operations planned for the FCT, Kogi, and Benue States. He added that services such as microfinance support, healthcare assistance, and marital counselling will form part of the centre’s offerings.
Addressing expectations, the bishop said beneficiaries must embrace righteousness, which he described as the foundation for national transformation. He argued that hunger weakens moral judgment, making it difficult for citizens to make ethical decisions, especially during elections.
He criticized the economic situation in Ekiti, claiming that the state has recorded some of the highest inflation rates in recent months, a reality he said contrasts sharply with the positive political narratives being promoted. He insisted that addressing hunger must come first before preaching electoral integrity.
With about 50 days to the election, Fagbohun urged residents to vote according to their conscience and “do the right thing.” He also called on media organizations to open their platforms for alternative voices, stressing that true democracy depends on reflecting the real conditions faced by the people.
