Oyebanji Introduces Relief Measures to Mitigate Impact of Fuel Subsidy Removal in Ekiti

• Published On: 10 August 2023 at 10:44

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has introduced relief measures to alleviate the impact of the removal of fuel subsidies on residents, including students, workers, and pensioners.

Similarly, in Akwa Ibom State, the government has established an 18-member committee to oversee the distribution of palliatives aimed at mitigating the effects of fuel subsidy removal on the state's populace.

In Ekiti, Mr. Akin Oyebode, Chairman of the State Palliatives Committee and Commissioner for Finance stated that while decisions like fuel subsidy removal might lead to short-term difficulties, the palliatives were intended to alleviate such challenges. The governor's approval for immediate implementation of the committee's recommendations was also noted.

The committee's membership consisted of representatives from the government and other stakeholders, including organized labor. The outlined palliatives encompassed various areas, such as payment of leave bonuses and pension arrears, implementation of adjustments for workers, and additional support for health workers.

Governor Oyebanji also introduced interventions to directly benefit the most vulnerable residents, including cash transfers, health insurance coverage, and a food distribution program.

Meanwhile, in Akwa Ibom State, Governor Umo Eno inaugurated an 18-member Palliatives Committee to manage the distribution of relief measures following the fuel subsidy removal. The committee, chaired by Enobong Uwah, Secretary to the State Government, consists of government representatives, labor leaders, and members from civil society organizations.

The committee's responsibilities include formulating detailed strategies for the distribution of palliative items, raising awareness about government measures, and ensuring successful implementation and monitoring. The governor expressed gratitude to organized labor for their cooperation during recent protests and emphasized the importance of targeting those in need.

Both governors emphasized the need for responsible and transparent distribution of the palliatives, aiming to mitigate the challenges faced by their constituents due to the removal of fuel subsidies.