Kano Govt Shuts Down Rice Mill, Says Firm’s Air Pollution Aggravates Coronavirus
POLITICS DIGEST – A leading Rice Mills Company in Kano, Tiamin Rice Limited has expressed dismay over the decision of Kano state government to shut down the company over allegation of air pollution.
The Kano State Ministry of Environment has earlier shut down the company alleging that the air pollution resulting from the company’s activities aggravate Coronavirus.
The company, in a statement by its Deputy Managing Director, Aliyu Ibrahim said it produces about 320 metric tonnes of rice daily has 223 workers on its payroll and over 100 additional casual staff.
The company said: “The Management and Staff of TIAMIN RICE LIMITED are all following the development of the pandemic with feelings of concern, urging its staff and customers to remain calm and follow the recommended guidelines of NCDC.
“The decision of the state government to shut down the company was conveyed to us in a “Notice for Closing Order” dated April 18, 2020, citing unfounded allegation of air pollution that aggravates Coronavirus patients.
Read Also:
“According to the notice, the government took the decision, following complaints of air pollution “with aggravate Coronavirus patients”.
To set the records straight, there are nearly 30 rice mills operating in Kano State, but TIAMIN RICE LIMITED is the ONLY Company affected by the order, despite its distance of over 20kms away from the isolation center at Sani Abacha Stadium.
“In his nationwide address, President Muhammadu Buhari has exempted all food prduction and processing companies in order to minimize the impact of the pandemic on the nation and ensure food security.
“The effect of this closure of TIAMIN RICE LIMITED on the nation’s economy in general and Kano in particular cannot be over emphasized”, the statement added.
The company also observed that the decision has completely jeopardised the economy of the ancient city and has exposed citizens to hunger.
“While making efforts to resolve the issue amicably, we wish to assure our loyal customers and distributors not to panic over this temporary setback. It is also heartwarming to inform our customers that our 600-tonne capacity plant in Bauchi State will soon be activated
“We will surely overcome this present challenge and others by the Grace of Allah. Let us continue to have faith in HIM and our Health Professionals as they are doing their best in this trying moment”, Tiamin Rice added.
