In a resolute move to alleviate the repercussions of the fuel subsidy removal on the residents of Ekiti State, Governor Biodun Oyebanji has unveiled an extensive range of palliative measures. These measures target various segments of the population, including students, workers, and pensioners, with the aim of cushioning the immediate impact of the subsidy withdrawal.
The Chairman of the state’s Palliatives Committee and Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Akintunde Oyebode, emphasized the temporary challenges that often accompany such pivotal decisions as fuel subsidy removal. He reassured the public that the outlined palliative actions are intended to bridge these transitional difficulties.
Speaking in Ado Ekiti, Commissioner Oyebode outlined the comprehensive nature of the palliatives, encompassing both the formal and informal sectors, as well as catering to elderly citizens. He underlined the swift approval of the committee’s recommendations by the governor, underscoring the urgency of their implementation.
The interventions are manifold, including:
Leave Bonus and Pension Arrears: Payment of one year’s leave bonus for state and local government workers, alongside the clearance of one month’s pension arrears for state and local government pensioners.
Consequential Adjustment and Allowances: Implementation of consequential adjustments for workers on specific salary grades, along with the application of 90 percent CONHESS and 100 percent Hazard Allowance for health workers at the local government level.
Promotion Benefits: Implementation of financial benefits arising from promotions in the years 2020 and 2021 for state and local government workers.
Transportation and Education Support: Immediate payment of one-month subvention arrears to tertiary institutions, coupled with the provision of free shuttle buses for workers and students, easing transportation challenges.
Commissioner Oyebode went on to detail a range of additional interventions, such as conditional cash transfers to households, inclusion in the ‘Ulera Wa’ Health Insurance Program, food distribution initiatives, support for farmers, and assistance for small businesses and the informal sector.
The surge in revenues resulting from the fuel subsidy removal, bolstered by the fiscal measures taken by President Bola Tinubu, paved the way for these substantial interventions. The government’s commitment to shared prosperity and its six-point agenda underscores Governor Oyebanji’s determination to elevate Ekiti State’s economic landscape.
The organized labor hailed the governor’s compassionate approach, with leaders including Chairmen of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Kolapo Olatunde; Trade Union Congress, Sola Adigun; and Joint Negotiation Council, Oluwafemi Ajoloko, commending the unprecedented commitment displayed by Governor Oyebanji. The swift endorsement of proposed measures, coupled with the comprehensive nature of the palliatives, was acknowledged as a hallmark of a progressive labor-government relationship.
Governor Oyebanji’s proactiveness and holistic approach to mitigating the fuel subsidy removal effects affirm the state’s commitment to the well-being of its citizens. The suite of palliatives stands as a testament to Ekiti State’s resolve to weather short-term challenges while fostering a more prosperous and equitable future.
