The Emir of Gusau, Ibrahim Bello, has asked the federal government to appoint more persons from his domain into federal establishments. The monarch also tasked the government on improving the security situation in Zamfara.

Mr. Bello made the request while receiving humanitarian affairs minister Sadiya Umar Farouq who had come to pay him homage at his palace on Monday.

“The federal government should support the state in opening more access roads to expose the hideouts of criminal elements and give security operatives easier access to counter all terrorists.

“We should also be considered for more federal appointments because currently, we only have one federal permanent secretary,” the emir said.

Ms. Umar Farouq seized the occasion to exonerate herself from allegations of diversion of resources meant for COVID-19 palliatives.

Fielding questions from journalists, the minister said: “I am aware many people have made various spurious allegations and accusations against my person and my ministry over the way we distributed Federal Government palliatives to cushion the effect of COVID-19.

“I have always said I am carrying out my duties and responsibilities to the best of my ability and with fairness to all parts of the country.

“Now that they have realized their mistakes, l will only pray to God to forgive us all.”

Nigerians have in the past few days besieged public and private warehouses where food aid for victims of COVID-19 lockdown were stored, carting away what many of them believe is being hoarded by government officials for selfish reasons.