The Kwara State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is urging Governor AbdulRaman AbdulRazaq to recall and redeploy workers recently affected by the government’s shutdown of Harmony Transport Services Ltd, also known as Kwara Express.
In a statement issued from Ilorin, the state capital, the PDP condemned the closure announced last Thursday for the purported restructuring of the transport company designed to enhance productivity and service delivery.
The government stated that the restructuring would include full payment of exit benefits to all affected workers, while also sending best wishes for their future endeavors. However, the PDP criticized this measure, describing the mass layoff as calamitous and insensitive during a time of economic hardship.
The party expressed concerns over the governor’s track record of dismantling viable businesses and contributing to poverty in the state, particularly highlighting that many laid-off workers had dedicated over 20 years of service to Kwara Express. Workers received minimal exit benefits, leading to further condemnation from the PDP regarding the impact of unemployment on their families and mental well-being.
Additionally, the PDP criticized Governor AbdulRazaq’s spending priorities, stating that he has spent over N2.1 billion on transport and travel, while only providing meager severance packages to workers. They highlighted the governor’s ongoing destruction of legacy projects such as Shonga Farms and others, which have historically been sources of pride and economic stability for the state.
In its statement, the PDP reiterated its commitment to the people of Kwara and called for solidarity to overcome what they describe as misgovernance. They are demanding the immediate re-employment of dismissed Kwara Express workers and are urging local labor leaders to support those affected by the closures.
