Abia pensioners, frustrated by years of financial hardship and the government's failure to pay pensions and gratuities, are turning to spiritual means in hopes of resolving the issue.
The pensioners recently completed a three-day spiritual exercise, during which they prayed for divine intervention in their plight.
Okey Kanu, the forum's coordinator, explained that their primary request is for Governor Otti to fulfill his campaign promises and pay the arrears of pensions and gratuities. With their financial stability on the line, these retirees, who served the state for many years, are now looking to faith to compel action from the government and provide relief from their ongoing suffering.
Unable to obtain their benefits through conventional means, many pensioners have turned to fasting and prayers, hoping spiritual intervention will spur action. They highlighted the severe struggles faced by retired civil servants, who are struggling to survive without the benefits they rightfully earned during their years of service.
Kanu stated, "We are asking Jesus Christ to intervene and move Governor Otti's heart to fulfill his promise by paying our outstanding pensions and gratuities."
He emphasized that the pensioners are seeking divine help for the governor to honor his commitment to clearing their arrears.
He further alleged that the government had breached the agreement, which clearly stated that any disputes should be resolved through mutual negotiations between the parties involved. He emphasized that this failure to adhere to the terms has contributed to the ongoing issues and frustrations faced by the pensioners, making it harder for them to secure their rightful benefits.
He stated, “Our state NUP Exco has denied agreeing to forfeit our arrears. However, during a media chat on November 7, 2024, the governor insisted that the NUP must return any funds received before the issue could be reconsidered. This statement is vague and unclear, particularly since the arrears paid in March 2024 were for debts incurred by the current administration.”
The pensioners presented three proposals to the state government: immediate payment of all arrears and gratuities as promised, payment in installments similar to what was done for state tertiary institutions, or leaving the arrears for a future administration willing to address the issue.
Kanu remarked, “To declare these entitlements waived or forfeited after 35 years of service is unjust. The Bible says a laborer deserves his wages.”
During the session, Pastor Success Obinya of the City Liberation Centre, Aba, encouraged the pensioners to have faith in God’s intervention.
Retiree, Nzimiro Nwokocha expressed deep frustration with the treatment of pensioners in the state, calling it “inhumane.”
He added, “Many of us are sick and struggling to survive. This is no way to treat people who served the state diligently.”
The pensioners prayed for Governor Otti, Abia State, and Nigeria, seeking divine intervention to remind the governor of his promises and grant them the justice they deserve.
