At NEC Meeting, Governor Adeleke Speaks on Palliative Delivery

By Tunde Eso 

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State today briefed the National Economic Council on steps his administration is taking to cushion the effect of current economic hardship.

He called on the Federal Government to push responsibility of implementation to the States as the closer government to the people and which faces the full impact of the economic hardships.

He commended the release of trucks of rice to the State of the Federation, noting that Osun is expecting the last batch of delivery before commencing the rice distribution.

Addressing his colleagues at the meeting, the Governor who redefined palliatives as totality of programmes and policies designed to support the citizenry said Osun is a special case within the Federation, positing that his government is giving effect to pro-people projects and policies.

" Dear colleagues, Osun is unique because of our unusual financial situation.  So for Osun state, certain things are compulsory for a government in place. Regular payment of salaries has been the main focus of his administration despite paucity of fund.

" I have also been paying billions of naira in salary and pension debt. A total of N76 billion naira was inherited as pension and salary debt. My government is gradually paying off the debt.

" Aside from ensuring regular inflow of salaries and inherited staff debt, I also launched free medical surgeries just yesterday. Over 30, 000 beneficiaries are expected across the six zones targeted for the exercise.

" We have also finalized subsidized transport logistic for state workers as well as staff work day adjustment for civil servants", the Governor told the meeting chaired by the Vice President, Kashim Shetimma.

While commending the Federal Government for its proactiveness , Governor Adeleke urged the Federal Government to empower the state more to alleviate the suffering of the people.