By Yetunde Oke
The Nigerian Union of Pensioners, NUP, Southwest Zone, says it will take to court state governments that have refused to consider pension increment and other entitlements for pensioners in their states.
NUP Southwest Public Relations Officer, Comrade Olusegun Abatan made this known at the Zone’s meeting, held in Osogbo, Osun State.
According to Comrade Abatan, the union is tired of issuing an ultimatum to the state governments not prioritising the needs of pensioners.
Comrade Abatan, appreciated Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde for earmarking 5 billion naira monthly to liquidate gratuities of pensioners in the state and Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa for donating a brand new 18 seater Bus to the state NUP Council.
Comrade Abatan, who is also the Secretary, NUP, Oyo State Council, gave advance notice that Governor Makinde and Governor Aiyedatiwa will be honoured at this year’s Gala and Awards night.
He however, castigated Ogun, Lagos and Osun States for not addressing the needs of retirees and called on them to wake up to their responsibilities toward pensioners.
The NUP Southwest Zone further, urged the federal government to pay the 25, 000 naira minimum wage to vulnerable pensioners for the period of 15 months, as promised.
It, however, lauded the federal government for the payment of 32,000 naira minimum pension and arrears across board
The NUP Southwest Zone, therefore, called on its members to only vote for politicians that would prioritise their needs in the forthcoming elections and added that they should also be security conscious, especially at this period of heightened insecurity in the country.
Thanks comrade Abatan for fighting for our course i pray those governors concern will take heed God bless all pensioners