Subsidy removal: Makinde announces economic recovery plans

<p>Oyo governor, Seyi Makinde, on Saturday, announced the short-term plans of the administration to mitigate the effects of the fuel subsidy removal on residents of the state, saying that his administration will continue to put the interest of the people first.</p>, <p>The governor, who gave this indication in a state-wide broadcast, maintained that food security, transportation and the sectors are among the immediate areas being targeted by the government to alleviate the economic difficulties facing residents of the State.</p>, <p>This was as the governor directed civil servants to resume their duty posts on Monday, as his government will pay the two months’ deductions owed the workers with their August salary, while it will also explore further options on dialogue.</p>, <p>He noted that the government remained open to parleying with labour to ensure that the rights of the workers of Oyo State are protected.</p>, <p>He encouraged the union leaders to return to the negotiating table to discuss any increases in salary or possible harmonisation of pension payments.</p>, <p>Governor Makinde had, earlier in June 2023, announced measures to cushion the hardship faced by the people following the removal of fuel subsidy, including increasing the number of Omituntun Buses on various routes in Ibadan, the state capital and reduction of fares for all residents, including senior citizens and students, who were to pay half prices.</p>, <p>The governor, on Saturday, however, stated that in line with his promise to do more, the administration has arrived at decisions, which will benefit a majority of the people in the state, while it continues to explore other measures.</p>, <p>He said: “I am addressing you today to share our short-term plans, which will play a huge role in alleviating the effects of the removal of fuel subsidies and the resultant economic difficulties being faced by our people. You will recall that on June 9, 2023, following the removal of fuel subsidy, we announced measures to be taken to cushion the effect