Muktar Yarima, the lawmaker representing Tarauni Federal Constituency in Kano State, is facing backlash from his constituents for distributing sorghum and millet as Ramadan palliatives.
Residents took to social media to express their disappointment, sharing images of the grains and mocking the lawmaker. Many argued that they were not livestock to be fed with sorghum.
A viral video by commentator Abba Wrecca showed security guards flogging beneficiaries to enforce order as they queued under the sun. In a Facebook post, Wrecca sarcastically noted that Yarima, who is an in-law to Rabiu Kwankwaso, had become a “celebrity” at the distribution site, where some beneficiaries enjoyed air-conditioned comfort while others endured harsh conditions.
Another video showed residents ridiculing the palliatives, comparing them to more substantial items—such as motorcycles and plots of land—provided by lawmakers in other constituencies. One frustrated constituent declared, “I swear to God, my mother will not eat this during Ramadan.”
Social media users also criticized Yarima’s choice of palliatives. Umar Mai Rice suggested he opted for sorghum because he grew up eating it, while Dayyib Usman exclaimed, “Oh my God, we are not horses. Even horses have stopped eating sorghum.” Another resident, Zakareeyah Xavi, lamented that the lawmaker had embarrassed the constituency, urging him to remember that he represents people, not animals.
Reports indicate that some beneficiaries abandoned the grains at the distribution center in protest.
Despite the criticism, Yarima’s supporters defended him, stating that he also provided rice and beans as part of the relief effort.
