Subsidy removal: CSOs query Soludo over whereabouts of palliatives

A coalition of civil society groups in Anambra State, under the aegis of Anambra Civil Society Network (ACSONET), has demanded explanation from the state governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, over his promise to distribute rice to 530,000 households.

The group also queried the governor over Anambra’s share of the fuel subsidy removal palliative announced by the Federal Government for states.

The coalition asked Soludo to, without further delay, start distributing the rice and other palliatives as residents of the state are facing hardship over the removal of fuel subsidy.

In a statement signed by coordinator of the group, Prince Chris Azor, the CSOs said the palliatives were meant to address the sufferings of citizens in the face of current challenges.

The statement said: “We had expressed serious concerns about the plight of the suffering masses in the face of humongous hike in prices of commodities, transportation and general livelihoods.

“We also noted that the palliative packages by Federal and State governments would not be enough to mitigate the hardship faced by Nigerians.

“We also commended the state government for rolling out comprehensive intervention strategies as made public by the governor in a statewide broadcast.
“We observed that there are some level of implementation in the health sector, through Antenatal and Postnatal free services. However, we expect the major interventions to commence immediately. The masses are really suffering.

“We will be happy to partner the state government and other stakeholders in monitoring the implementation process in order to ensure inclusivity, transparency and accountability.”