“I can’t sleep until every child feeds in my constituency” – Plateau Lawmaker
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Hon. Peter Ibrahim Gyendeng, the Lawmaker representing Barkin Ladi constituency in the Plateau State House of Assembly, might have passed through hell, before attaining his present status.
Born in Foron village, in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, Peter lost his parents at a tender age. Thus, he grew up under tough conditions. However, he strived, never giving up, till he established his own business, providing jobs for others in his previous condition.
Since his election into the House of Assembly five years ago, Peter has expanded his impact. However, he has yet to satisfy his desire to touch lives. “I will never sleep until every child, especially orphans, every widow and every deprived citizen in my constituency is able feed, and sleep peacefully,” he said.
Peter’s constituency has been under sustained herdsmen attacks for over ten years now. Two years ago, he was detained by Military Task Force operatives for speaking up for his oppressed constituents. He however remained firm, not just speaking up but lobbying for opportunities for his constituents.
On Thursday, indications emerged that he was planning to issue business grants to over 800 less privileged rurals in Barkin Ladi. Of the total number, about 200 are widows, mostly victims of herdsmen attacks, it was learnt.
According to close sources, 500 of the selected beneficiaries will Saturday be given N10,000 each to start or expand businesses. Others will get water pump machines for irrigation, hair dryers for salon startups, grinding machines, sewing machines and electric generators.
When contacted, the lawmaker confirmed the plan, but said he was not making a show of it, thus withholding further comments. This is not the first intervention he is performing low-key.
It was however gathered that the planned intervention which is part of his 2020 constituency project, is in partnership with the Plateau State Microfinance Development Agency (PLASMIDA).
An official of the agency confirmed that the agency will provide training and logistics in line with the lawmaker’s chosen area of intervention which is poverty alleviation and unemployment.
The agency under the APC led government of Barr. Simon Lalong in the State is partnering with the House member who is of the People’s Democratic Party to eradicate poverty in the conflict-ridden local government.
