By Aanuoluwpo Fasoyin
Teach us to number our days, that we may apply our heart unto wisdom, says a verse in the Bible.
This came to fore as people from all walks of life gathered at Pensioners house, Onireke, Ibadan, to celebrate 70th birthday of a labour leader, Comrade Olusegun Abatan.
At the ocassion, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, joined family, friends, associates, colleagues and well wishers to celebrate and honour the Secretary of Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Oyo State Council, Comrade Olusegun Abatan.
Governor Makinde said he has approved the increment of pensions and gratuities from 206 million naira to 500 million naira for state Pensioners and 250 million naira to 500 million for payment of pension and gratuity at local government level
Governor Makinde who said the payment will commence in July, 2024.
The Governor revealed that Comrade Abatan, has never met him for personal purposes but in the interest of Pensioners in the state, adding that he was among the few that worked tirelessly towards achieving his political ambition in 2019.
He therefore, urged people to read and study about the celebrant’s life and fight for the welfare of Pensioners.
Earlier, the celebrant, Comrade Olusegun Abatan, was full of appreciation to Governor Makinde, for his love for Pensioners through prompt payment of pensions and gratuities.
He also appealed to the Governor not to relent in granting other requests the union placed on his table, to aid the welfare of Pensioners.
Children of the celebrant, who spoke, said despite the spirit of unionism in their father, Comrade Abatan is also a family man to the fullest.
Highlights of the birthday celebration was launching of a book titled: “Olusegun Abatan, A Prisoner of conscience”, cultural display by Oyo cultural group, cutting of cake and goodwill messages.
