A Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Obadjere of St. William’s Catholic Church in Orerokpe, Delta State, has criticized the reported distribution of branded bags of rice to voters ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking in a video that has gained attention on social media, the cleric described the practice as inappropriate and questioned the priorities of those behind it.
According to Fr. Obadjere, he discovered that a bag of rice bearing the image of Nigeria’s President had been delivered to his residence while he was away. He argued that resources spent on such political giveaways would be better invested in projects capable of creating lasting economic benefits.
The priest said government supporters and political stakeholders should focus on initiatives such as establishing industries, improving electricity supply, and creating employment opportunities rather than distributing food items for political purposes.
He maintained that investments in infrastructure and industrial development would have a greater impact on the lives of ordinary Nigerians than short-term handouts.
Fr. Obadjere also announced that he would donate the bag of rice to members of his congregation instead of keeping it for personal use.
The video has continued to generate mixed reactions online, with many Nigerians sharing differing opinions on the priest’s remarks and the role of political gifts in electioneering.
