Pensioners in Ogun State have renewed their appeal on the state Government to increase the monthly pensions stipends and gratuities to meet current economic realities.
The Chairman, Local government Pensioners Association of Nigeria, Abeokuta Branch, Chief Sikiru Ayilara made the call during a peaceful protest of the association at the Oke Mosan Abeokuta Governor’s office.
The peaceful protest disrupted vehicular movement for some hours, while the gates to the governor’s office were also shut, preventing exit and entry into the Secretariat.
The protesters carried mats and placards with inscriptions such as gratuities are on sale to Pensioners in Ogun state, Governor Dapo Abiodun honour your father and treat pensioners well.
Addressing journalists, The Chairman, Local government Pensioners Association of Nigeria, Abeokuta Branch, Chief Sikiru Ayilara said inability of the governor to address the agitations of pensioners, despite the series of meetings held with them in the past had necessitated the protest.
Chief Ayilara who described the monthly payment of five thousand naira to the pensioners as unacceptable said there was the need for Immediate harmonisation of the payments.
Chief Ayilara also stressed the need for government to return the responsibility of paying pensions and gratuities to the bureau of local government Pension.
Also, Mr Jerome Awakan and Jamiu Idowu who claimed that they were being paid four thousand naira each described the amount as ridiculous especially with the prevailing economic reality. ll
Addressing the protesters, Secretary to Ogun State Government, SSG, Mr Tokunbo Talabi said a meeting between the representatives of the pensioners and ogun state government would be held soon towards addressing their needs.
Mr Talabi who announced that the government had paid one billion naira for the first tranche of the gratuities commended the elder citizens for their peaceful conduct.
Segun Folarin
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