From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
Work resumed in Kaduna state yesterday following two days of Christmas and Boxing Day break declared by the federal government.
A visit to Kaduna state Secretariat along Independence Way, some of the staff in small groups discussing the long break which also falls on the weekend.
Although some offices were under lock and key, it is apparent many staff have resumed duties.
Some of the staff who spoke to this reporter expressed dismay over the hardship, insecurity threat and rising cost of food items in the state.
According to them, rising cost of commodities without a corresponding increase in salaries makes the celebration a mere sit at home affairs.
People like Bawa Ishiaku were concerned about the insecurity threatening the state, and Nigeria, worrying that they no longer sleep at night.
A printer Mallam Muhalid with a printing Press at U/Sarki in Kaduna North Local Government Area said he is in pain over the kidnap activities around Kaduna and environs” lamenting that some households have gone bankrupt as kidnappers often demand a ransom that their 35 year retirement benefit cannot pay.
Another staff with Federal Secretariat Kawo who did not want his names in print said one of his colleague’s son was kidnapped early last week, up till now, they could not raise the ransom demanded.
“My colleague has not come to work since then, every morning, he goes out looking for someone to borrow him money he never dreamt of having
“Many of us coming to work have nothing to transport us back home. Salaries have not been paid, foodstuff is out of reach of the common man. We only come to answer presents. “ he lamented
Similarly, Easter Gambo informed the Peoples Daily that she usually spends her Yuletide holiday in her village in Zango Kataf Local Government but the current situation calls for wisdom.
She, however, expressed happiness to be back at her duty post.
Bello Iman of Marafa estate said the holiday season gives him time to rest and relax with his family even amidst hardship and insecurity.
