Nigerian Pensioners Cry Over Unpaid Benefits, Arrears

…warn Gov. Adeleke Against Using their plight to launch re-election ambition

In Osun State, South-West, Nigeria, pensioners under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) are raising alarm over unpaid benefits and arrears, warning Governor Ademola Adeleke against exploiting their suffering to fuel his re-election campaign in 2025, ahead of 2026.

The pensioners, both “Bonded” and “Unbonded,” have long endured financial hardship due to the State Government’s failure to offset their half-salary arrears and settle outstanding gratuities, as promised them during the electioneering, two years ago.

The situation, which they describe as increasingly dire, has taken a toll on their health, with many suffering from stress-induced ailments such as high blood pressure and strokes. For some, the prolonged delay has resulted in untimely deaths, leaving families devastated and communities mourning.

Speaking on behalf of the pensioners, Chairman of the Osun State Contributory Pensioners, Awodele Olusola Abiodun Eeegunjenmi, expressed deep concern over the state’s handling of their payments.

“The socio-economic lions are roaring at us daily. The delay is causing undue suffering, leading to health complications and even death,” he said.

“Our most vulnerable are the Unbonded, who lack the financial support to weather this storm.”

The pensioners are particularly frustrated by the erratic and insufficient payments they’ve received so far. According to them, the recent financial influx into the state—thanks to federal reimbursements following the 2023 fuel subsidy removal—makes it clear that the Osun State Government has the means to settle all outstanding payments immediately.

“Dishing out half-salary arrears in bits and pieces is no longer a solution,” Awodele noted.

“We know Osun State is financially capable of settling everything. The time for excuses is over.”

The pensioners are demanding that all outstanding payments be made by the end of 2024. Anything short of that, they warned, would push them to reconsider their options, including potential protests or legal actions.

They are also sending a strong message to Governor Ademola Adeleke, saying “do not use our plight to launch your re-election bid. We will not tolerate our suffering being exploited as a campaign tool,” the chairman emphasized.

“Enough is enough,” he declared.

Despite their frustrations, the pensioners continue to call for unity and prayer among their ranks. They also urge caution against spreading misinformation, referencing a recent false report about a government committee being formed to address their concerns. “The committee is focused on the New Minimum Wage, not the CPS,” Awodele clarified. “If the government is serious about addressing our issues, they must do so transparently and include CPS representatives.”

As 2024 winds down, the Osun State Contributory Pensioners are making it clear that they expect swift and decisive action. Their patience is wearing thin, and their suffering is growing unbearable. “We need action now, not campaign promises for 2025,” Awodele concluded.