Pensioners in Abia State under the aegis of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP), Abia Council, have accused the government of betraying their trust with regard to payment of pension arrears.
Briefing newsmen in Umuahia on Thursday, the union expressed dissatisfaction over Governor Alex Otti’s failure to clear outstanding pensions and gratuities despite promises during his election campaign.
“If the Governor His Excellency Dr Alex Otti (OFR) has decided to renege on his campaign promises in clearing all arrears of pensions he met on assumption to office, he should declare it to Abians”, the Union said.
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A committee which has as members Prof. Kenneth Kalu, Mazi Michael Akpara, and Dr. Betty Emeka Obasi, was formed to address pension issues in the state.
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However, a Memorandum of Understanding reached through the committee is now a subject of dispute.
The union alleges the agreement falsely claims pensioners waived outstanding entitlements.
Chairman Elder Chukwuemeka Irondi stated that Dr. Obasi demanded an NUP letterhead with false information. The state secretary signed the document without proper review.
“Abia pensioners in their state council meeting held on 11th January 2024, decided to waive their outstanding entitlements including pensions and gratuity, and coerced the representatives of the state NUP to endorse such falsehood”, Irondi said.
The chairman urged Governor Otti to openly declare any intention to renege on campaign promises, emphasizing transparency.
This development follows historical protests by Abia pensioners over unpaid pensions and gratuities, with 32 months of arrears reported in 2019.
The Abia government previously reiterated its commitment to clearing pension arrears.
When contacted by ABN TV, Ferdinand Ekeoma, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, acknowledged awareness of the allegation and pledged to respond accordingly.
