Amidst their meager pension, members of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners, Akwa Ibom State Council, are calling upon Governor Umo Eno to address the economic hardships they are facing.
They expressed their inability to sustain themselves with the meager amounts ranging from N1500 to N5000, especially given the current economic conditions.
During a press conference in Uyo on Wednesday, the NUP chairman, Obong Ekpenyong Ekpo, and secretary, Obong Cosmos Essien, voiced concerns about the challenges faced by their members in affording basic necessities and medications. They highlighted the need for an alignment of their pension payments, similar to what other state governments in the Niger Delta region have begun to initiate for their pensioners.
Addressing the governor, the secretary, representing the members, lamented the government’s failure to fulfill its commitment to provide a minimum pension of N20,000 for those who retired before 1997 and N30,000 for subsequent retirees.
In addition, he pointed out the lack of adherence by the state government to Section 173 (3) (2) (10) of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates the periodic review of pensions every five years in line with salary increments for workers.
Essien also urged the governor to establish a dedicated pension commission or board where pensioners can voice their concerns and have representation.
According to him: “Despite our persistent pleas and appeals to the government for assistance, there has been no positive response. Many of our members are struggling to survive on meager pensions, with over 65% battling hypertension and diabetes. The cost of living in Nigeria is exorbitant, and our members are facing immense difficulties. We have tried to engage with the government, but our pleas have been ignored.”
Highlighting the dire circumstances faced by pensioners, he emphasized the need for urgent intervention to prevent further hardships and distress among the elderly.
The union threatened to organize a large-scale protest in Uyo, culminating in the blockade of the Government House gate to draw attention to their grievances and seek resolution. Despite their challenges, they acknowledged the governor’s efforts in disbursing approximately N14 billion in gratuities to various categories of pensioners within nine months of assuming office.
“Past experiences have shown that pensioners become victims of false claims by some former governors who deny owing any pensions, leading to evictions by landlords. This further exacerbates the plight of pensioners who are already struggling to make ends meet,” remarked the union secretary.