The United Labour Congress (ULC) has called for diversification of Kogi state economy in the face of dwindling finances occasioned by the coronavirus pandemic.
In a congratulatory message to workers in Kogi state as they mark this year’s May Day celebration, the state Chairman of ULC, Comrade Opaluwa Eleojo called on the state government to explore the extractive sector to cushion the effects of allocation shortfalls.
He urged the state government to shelve the plans to pay workers in the state percentage salaries.
“Our worries over the years and our insistence on the diversification of the state economy has began to manifest in the face COVID-19, leading to the dwindling of the state allocation from the center. We, at ULC, urge the state government to look inward and begin mining work of all the mineral deposits in the state, thereby increasing the internally generated revenue accruing to the state and creating more jobs to the army of unemployed youths roaming the streets of the state and beyond.
“We reject the impunity laden plan by the state government to pay the workers in percentage as a result of the growing COVID-19 pandemic. It is unacceptable and would be resisted by the ULC in the spirit of solidarity.
“It is important that we address the issue of our pensioners in the state, especially as we battle the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic. We commend the state government and corporate organizations, including individuals that have made effort in providing palliative to the vulnerable in the society. The Congress wish to bring to the attention of the state government that the pensioners are the most vulnerable group of people in the state, as they are of course peopled with old men and women who have become infirm as a result of age and can no longer feed themselves. ULC wish to suggest that such donations and cash transfer be channelled these group so as to create succor to them.
“Sadly and unfortunately, 2020 May Day came with unprecedented issues and challenges arising from the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The unfortunate pandemic has deprived us, the working class, the usual engagement in traditional parades, rallies, merriments and other activities that are associated with an auspicious occasion as this.
“We salute our members in the state who have contributed to the provision of essential services to the people of the state within this period of COVID-19 at the expense of their lives. While you discharge your duties, we urge you to adhere strictly to government health and safety directions and of those of our health care providers.
“Our message as workers of the state to the government and people of the state is the to embrace each other as one, irrespective of tribe, religion and political differences. The global pandemic has taught us all that, there’s no difference between the rich, and the poor, as an injury to one is an injury to all. There’s need for solidarity among all the sections of the state.
“We are glad to inform you that despite the global pandemic and other societal disconnect, your Center, the United Labour Congress of Nigeria (ULC), remains united, focused, vibrant, and strong. Our membership strength and affiliates have continued to swell by the day. Together, in solidarity, we shall rise from the ashes of the moment, and remain more internally stronger and externally more coherent and effective,” he said.
