NLC Says Most Vulnerable Yet to Receive Relief Items

• NLC Says Most Vulnerable Yet to Receive Relief Items

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) on Tuesday said the most vulnerable and the indigent in Lagos have not received relief materials despite campaigns to cushion the effects of lockdown on people living the state.

Agnes Funmi-Sessi, the Chairperson, NLC, Lagos State Chapter, disclosed this in a statement released by the union.

She said, “We have observed that in the distribution of relief materials to the indigent and most vulnerable in the state to cushion the effects of the stay-at-home directive, the target recipients are yet to be reached.

“We implore the state government to make the process more seamless and stress-free by deploying already established structures in the state like market groups, organisations, social groups, trade unions and institutions to reach those in extreme need.

“As workers, we are already feeling the impact of the development as it will most likely have a lot of implications on the revenue generation of the state.”

Funmi-Sessi urged employers to work hard at protecting employees and jobs in the state.

She stated, “We appeal that the government and other employers to do all within their capacity to protect the jobs of workers/employees in the state.

“We humbly request for tolerance in this trying period on the part of government, employers and workers as we are optimistic that with the level of commitment by the government in combating this scourge, this phase will pass.”

The NLC, however, lauded the efforts of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi in containing the spread of COVID-19 in the state.

It said, “It is on record that the state has earned itself commendation not only in Nigeria but the world at large.

“The recent decision by the government to cater to the minor medical and maternity expenses of Lagosians in state hospitals during this period is a welcome development and highly appreciated.

“We appreciate the Commissioner for Health, Prof Akin Abayomi and his team for the commitment and professional way the issue is being handled. The untiring efforts of the doctors, nurses and health workers in assisting to combat this pandemic and ensuring the well-being of every citizen are recognised and highly appreciated.”