Abia pensioners demand payment of outstanding benefits

Abia state pensioners are demanding that Governor Alex Otti fulfill his promises to pay their outstanding pension and gratuity arrears. The pensioners, represented by the Abia Pensioners Forum, addressed journalists in Umuahia, expressing disappointment in the state government's failure to deliver on its commitments. Led by Okey Kanu, the forum accused Otti of reneging on a promise made during his election campaigns in 2015, 2019, and 2023.

They also dismissed claims that Otti's administration had already cleared the pension arrears inherited from previous administrations. The pensioners urged the government to immediately commence payments, stating that many pensioners have since died without receiving these benefits, while those still alive require the payments to meet basic needs such as food, medication, and retirement home projects.

They emphasized that retirees who served for 35 years or retired at 60 should not be treated with "levity, disdain, and ignominy." The forum appealed to the government to prevent the exploitation of pension and gratuity arrears issues for political gains.