By Olusegun Olanrewaju
A Labour Party (LP) chieftain in Delta State, Lennox Egavoja Gold, has urged the Federal Government to take ‘remedial measures’ to cushion the effects of the present economic hardship being faced by the people as a result of the withdrawal of petroleum subsidy.
In a statement yesterday, he also advised the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) government at the federal level, led by the president, to dump the “so-called N8,000 palliatives” that are already fracturing the economy.
“Therefore, I will relate, as a concerned citizen, for the betterment of the country regarding the Federal Government seeking a review of the proposed palliatives, which it is already positioning to do.
According to Gold, “There are some general insights on the topic of remedial measures for economic hardship. In times of economic hardship, it is not uncommon for the central government (in this case, the Federal Government) to take the lead in implementing measures to alleviate the situation.
“However, it is important to note that effective solutions often require a multi-level and collaborative approach involving the different tiers of government.”
The LP chieftain advised state and local governments to play a crucial role in complementing the efforts of the Federal Government in assisting in the implementation of the new palliative structure it is packaging, for desired results.
In the statement, he listed some of the actions the government can take to power the progamme, including, identifying local needs, Implementing target programmes. strengthening social security nets, collaboration and resource pooling.
This involves the conduct of assessments and surveys to identify the most affected sectors and populations; Providing localised job creation initiatives, establishing of local food security programmes, or supporting small businesses through grants or tax incentives.
This, he added, can be done through collaboration with non-governmental organisations, community groups, and private sector enterprises, the provision of direct financial assistance, as well as food subsidies, healthcare support, and housing assistance to vulnerable populations.
“In summary,” he added, “while the Federal Government often takes the lead in implementing remedial measures during economic hardship, the involvement of state governments and local governments is crucial.
“By understanding local needs, implementing targeted programmes, strengthening social safety nets, and fostering collaboration, state and LGs can contribute significantly to alleviating economic hardships in their respective regions,” he said.
