Members of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Ogun State, on Monday, lamented that “avoidable deaths” are being recorded among them on a daily basis.
They also said some of them still earn as low as N5,000 pension monthly, calling on Governor Dapo Abiodun to implement the Consequential Adjustment in Pensions of retirees as approved by President Muhammadu Buhari under the benefit scheme since April 18, 2019.
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Speaking on Monday at an event marking the 2021 Pensions Day in Abeokuta, the State Chairman, Waheed Oloyede, called on Abiodun to increase to N1billion monthly, the money being released to offset unpaid gratuities.
This, Oloyede said, would; “reduce the anxiety of the expectant pensioners at the possibility of collecting the money before death come knocking”.
He however expressed appreciation to the government for the release of quarterly payments throughout the year 2021.
Oloyede further requested the implementation of the provisions of the Federal Government Circular on 33.4% increase in pension, as issued in 2010.
“The meager pension of N5,000.00 minimum pension being paid is grossly inadequate to meet with the present economic demands.
“We, again, request for the refund of the unremitted Contributory Pension Deductions to retirees. These had accrued to over 150 months of unremitted deductions to the various PFAs.
“We finally make request for the resuscitation of the suspended Bureau of State Pensions Committee and the Bureau of Local Government Pensions by the last administration. These are legal committees backed up by the Federal and State Laws,” he said.
The pensioners maintained that many of their members were presently handicapped and incapacitated with different health challenges requiring immediate medical attention that will gulp much money.
“Feeding to many of us is becoming elusive as the meager pension received cannot meet with the ever soaring inflationary trend.
“Avoidable deaths are recorded on our members on a daily basis.
“Your Excellency, we passionately plead that you kindly ensure that our demands be met.”
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