States Without Clear Palliative Plans for Fuel Subsidy Removal: Imo , Abia, Enugu, Anambra, Benue, Delta Take the Lead

Despite the Federal Government’s approval of N5 billion for each state to procure food items and fertilizers as part of relief efforts after removing petrol subsidy, many states have yet to develop concrete palliative plans for their residents.

Residents from states that have initiated palliatives show mixed opinions on the effectiveness of these measures. While some residents view the initiatives negatively, others appreciate them but demand improvements and additional measures.

In Rivers State, for instance, Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s initiative to provide 17 luxury buses for free intra-state transportation was met with criticism. Some residents found the timing and operation of the buses inconvenient, and certain buses have already broken down.

Similar discontent is evident in Lagos State, where Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu announced a 50% fare reduction for state-owned public transportation services. However, some commercial drivers have ignored this directive, and state-owned services have only partially complied.

In Cross River State, Governor Bassey Otu’s distribution of palliatives including foodstuffs, seedlings, and farming equipment received mixed feedback. Some residents appreciated the effort, but others voiced concerns about the distribution process and called for reduced working days for civil servants.

Meanwhile, Delta, Enugu, Abia, Imo, and Kaduna have not yet unveiled specific palliative plans to address the impact of subsidy removal on vulnerable residents.

In response to these challenges, residents suggest various solutions. Some call for increased wages, more employment opportunities, agricultural development, and skills training. Others advocate for improved public transportation, free transportation schemes, and reduced working days to ease financial burdens.

While several states have made strides in implementing palliatives, there’s a clear need for comprehensive plans that directly address the economic challenges brought about by the fuel subsidy removal…[CONTINUE READING HERE]>>