After over a decade of waiting, pensioners in Edo State have started receiving their long-overdue gratuities.
Governor Monday Okpebholo has approved the release of N1 billion for the first phase of payments, ending a 12-year delay.
In a statement released on Monday by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the state government said it has started paying retired civil servants their entitlements, which had not been paid since 2012.
“For over a decade, many of our retirees have suffered due to the non-payment of their gratuities. This administration is putting an end to that hardship,” Governor Okpebholo said.
“I have approved the release of N1 billion for the first phase of payments, and we will not rest until all outstanding entitlements are cleared.”
The governor promised that the payment would continue in phases until all affected pensioners receive their full benefits. He also said his administration is working to make sure delays like this do not happen again in the future.
“We recognise the sacrifices made by our retirees, and it is unacceptable that they have had to wait this long for what is rightfully theirs,” he said.
“Our administration will not only clear these arrears but will also put measures in place to ensure such delays do not happen in the future.”
He added that the payment process would be done in a fair and transparent way, with pensioners being paid in batches after proper verification.
“This is just the beginning. We will not abandon our pensioners. We are determined to ensure that those who served Edo State diligently are treated with the respect and care they deserve,” the governor said.
The move has been welcomed by many retired workers in the state who have struggled for years without receiving their rightful benefits.
