For three months, there has been no palliative payment, making these times particularly challenging. I question the rationale behind the federal government granting public holidays for Christmas and New Year when salaries are withheld, unlike past administrations that disbursed leave grants before such holidays. It is unjust and inhumane to declare public holidays without ensuring timely salary payments, especially considering the economic challenges, removal of fuel subsidy, and price increases in the market. The current administration, led by Bola Ahmed and Shettima, needs to address the plight of civil servants, who have only received a meager 35k for September and nothing more. Going forward, public holidays should not be granted if salaries are not promptly paid, and measures should be taken to support federal government workers.

For the past three months, an unsettling situation has unfolded as civil servants have been grappling with the absence of palliative support during what can only be described as challenging times. This predicament raises legitimate concerns about the priorities and policies of the federal government, particularly in light of the recent decision to grant public holidays for Christmas and New Year.

In times past, preceding administrations demonstrated a more considerate approach by disbursing leave grants at the end of the year before declaring public holidays. However, the current government has taken a perplexing stance by withholding salaries while simultaneously announcing public holidays. This discrepancy prompts a critical examination of the decision-making process and the apparent lack of empathy for the workforce.

It is essential to question the reasoning behind the declaration of public holidays during a period when financial uncertainty looms large. The juxtaposition of festivities and financial strain underscores a broader issue that extends beyond the immediate concerns of salary disbursement. It reflects a disconcerting trend where policy decisions seem detached from the real-life challenges faced by the citizens.

Furthermore, the economic landscape has witnessed significant shifts, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the devaluation of our currency. These developments have had a cascading effect on the cost of living, with virtually everything in the market experiencing a surge in prices. In this context, the decision-makers must acknowledge the ripple effects of their policies on the everyday lives of the people.

Amid these economic challenges, the federal government's response to the needs of its workforce becomes crucial. The assertion that civil servants received a meager sum of 35,000 Naira for September with no subsequent payments is alarming. This raises questions not only about the adequacy of the remuneration but also about the government's commitment to addressing the financial well-being of its employees.

The concerns expressed go beyond mere financial inconveniences; they touch upon the ethical dimensions of governance. To declare public holidays without ensuring the timely payment of salaries reflects a disconnect between policy decisions and the realities faced by the citizens. It is a matter of basic humanity to recognize and respond to the immediate needs of the workforce, especially during challenging economic times.

In this light, it becomes imperative for the federal government, under the leadership of Bola Ahmed and Shettima, to reassess its approach. The absence of concrete measures to support civil servants in the face of economic challenges is a cause for genuine worry. The government must not only acknowledge the grievances but also demonstrate a commitment to alleviating the hardships faced by its workforce.

Moving forward, a reconsideration of the practice of granting public holidays is warranted. If the government is unable to ensure timely salary payments, the wisdom of declaring public holidays during such periods comes into question. It is a matter of fairness and justice to align policy decisions with the practical needs of the people, ensuring that the government's actions reflect a genuine concern for the welfare of its workforce.

In conclusion, the current conundrum faced by civil servants necessitates a thorough examination of government policies and priorities. The intersection of economic challenges, salary delays, and the declaration of public holidays highlights a systemic issue that demands immediate attention. As the government formulates its strategies, it must prioritize the well-being of its workforce, demonstrating a commitment to empathy, fairness, and responsible governance.