Daud Olatunji
The Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Ogun State Chapter, has commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for the release of N5.3 billion in gratuities to pensioners in the state.
PLATFORM TIMES reports that this action, according to the union, will significantly reduce the backlog of unpaid gratuities that has burdened retired civil servants in Ogun.
The commendation was conveyed in a letter dated September 17, addressed to the governor.
The letter, jointly signed by the NUP’s Chairman, Waheed Oloyede, and Secretary, Bola Lawal, expressed deep appreciation for the governor’s commitment to addressing the financial entitlements of the state’s elderly retirees.
The union noted that the release of the funds demonstrates the Ogun State Government’s “sincerity of purpose” and a strong commitment to the well-being of pensioners, who have for many years been deprived of their rightful benefits.
“This gesture is a much-needed relief for many pensioners who have long awaited the payment of their gratuities,” the letter stated.
In addition to the gratuities, the NUP also lauded the state government for its consistent and prompt payment of monthly pensions.
The retirees highlighted that this regular payment schedule has enabled many pensioners to plan for the purchase of essential medications and manage their healthcare needs.
The union acknowledged that various palliative measures implemented by the Abiodun administration had provided additional relief for pensioners amid the ongoing economic challenges.
“We appreciate the various palliatives and subsidies benevolently directed towards us by your administration, especially during these harsh economic times,” the union noted.
Despite the progress made, the pensioners seized the opportunity to appeal for further adjustments to their pensions.
Specifically, the NUP requested the governor’s approval for a consequential increase in pensions for long-standing retirees, in line with the 2019 Federal Government Circular on the Consequential Adjustment of Pensions.
The union described the current pensions received by many elderly retirees as “paltry” and insufficient to cover basic healthcare costs.
“The paltry sums being received by most pensioners are grossly inadequate to purchase required drugs for various health challenges, let alone meet the demands of the present-day economic realities,” the letter explained.
The NUP also urged the governor to ensure that pensioners are represented alongside organized labor in the forthcoming negotiations on a new national wage increase.
This inclusion, they argued, would ensure that pensioners are not left behind in any potential salary adjustments, particularly in relation to the benefits received by more recent retirees.
The union pledged its unwavering support for Governor Abiodun’s administration, reaffirming their dedication to backing his leadership as he continues to address issues affecting pensioners in the state.
“We express our tacit, dedicated, committed, and unwavering support to you and your administration at all times,” the NUP stated, emphasizing their gratitude for the ongoing efforts to improve the welfare of pensioners in Ogun State.
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