COVID-19 palliative: Group carpets FG over selective treatment
A group known as Arewa Online Publishers’ Association (AOPA) has accused the federal government of “cherry-picking” states it wants to help in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
The association made the accusation in a press statement signed and issued to journalists in Bauchi on Wednesday by its Bauchi state Coordinator, Mallam Mohammed Haruna.
“We left our tongues wagging as to how the federal government ignominiously selected the states that should enjoy palliatives associated with the pandemic.
“Bauchi state governor was the first high profile personality to test positive for this virus, but unfortunately, the federal government appears too insensitive to sympathies with the governor let alone support the people of the state upon whose mandate and show of love, Buhari is steering the Presidency today,” the statement added.
The association further accused the federal government of favouring APC led-states in the distribution and allocation of COVID-19 incentives to cushion the effects of the pandemic.
“History will document this selective treatment by President Buhari and the federal government.
“Even the populist Trump administration in the US appears more sensitive enough to support states on the basis of needs and magnitude of the virus,” it added.
While accusing the federal government of betraying the people of Bauchi state at the time of their need, the association said that “after luring the people of Bauchi state to give them massive votes, the Buhari led administration is rewarding them badly.”
The body however, appraised Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi state over his decision to reverse the planned deduction of workers’ salary in the name of supporting the ongoing fight against the spread of COVID-19 pandemic in the state.
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The association said Gov. Bala has demonstrated stewardship by taking sides with Bauchi workers by avoiding the mistakes of the past.
“We have always argued that Governor Bala Mohammed is not a passive governor; he listens to voices of wisdom and have zero tolerance for indolence and mediocrity, and that is what he has demonstrated once again,” the statement added.
The association said the reversal of the planned deduction has rejuvenated the hope and confidence the people of the state have on Gov. Bala’s administration and its visionary strides.
