A political group, The Working People United (WoPU), a movement committed to good governance and advocate for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu re-election has called on the Federal and State Governments to urgently introduce temporary relief measures to cushion the harsh effects of the rising cost of fuel on Nigerian workers and the general public.
According to WoPU, the surge in fuel prices, largely driven by the ongoing tensions and conflict in the Middle East, like other countries in the world, is already placing additional economic pressure on millions of Nigerians who are now struggling with rising transportation costs and the increasing prices of essential goods and services, thereby eroding the few gains the administration has made in this areas.
WoPU Interim National Coordinator, Comrade Williams Akporeha, gave the suggestion in a statement on Wednesday.
Akporeha said : “Working People United (WoPU) held that this was a critical moment that requires proactive intervention from government at all levels to protect the welfare of workers and ordinary citizens.
“As an immediate measure, WoPU urged the Federal and State Governments to make free transportation available to workers across major cities, similar to what Kaduna State government has started and arrangements often provided during the Yuletide season and other festive periods.
“This initiative will help reduce the transportation burden on workers who must commute daily to their workplaces,” WoPU said.
Akporeha also said that : “The governments can equally collaborate with transport unions and recognized transport companies to provide subsidized or cheaper transport services for Nigerians until the global crisis stabilizes and fuel prices ease as this hard time will hopefully not last long.”
In addition, Working People United called on the Federal and State Governments to partner with private and public sector employers and their federating agencies to introduce relief measures that will support private and public sector workers who are equally affected by the sudden rising cost of transportation and living expenses.
“Furthermore, WoPU urged governments to take deliberate steps as has happened in some time past, ensure that essential commodities are again made available to Nigerians at reduced and controlled prices during this difficult period, adding that.
“Strategic interventions in food supply chains and other basic necessities will help ease the burden on households and prevent further economic hardships”.
“This period again demands Mr President usual responsive and compassionate leadership and should continuously act swiftly to ensure that Nigerian workers and citizens do not bear the full weight of a global crisis which is totally beyond the control of all.
“While Working People United (WoPU) remains unwavering committed to the re-election of President Ahmed Tinubu, we shall also continue to advocate for policies and initiatives that promote the welfare, dignity and economic security of Nigerian working people and masses.
“We shall overcome,” WoPU boss said. (vitalnewsngr.com)
