The Coalition of Federal Pensioners of Nigeria has announced plans for a nationwide protest on November 24, should the government not address their outstanding pension increment arrears and palliative allowances.
Mr. Mukaila Ogunbote, the National Chairman of the coalition, made this announcement during a briefing with newsmen in Lagos yesterday.
Ogunbote, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, NIPOST Chapter, stated that a protest will take place if the federal government does not honor its commitment to pay the N32,000 approved pension increment arrears and the N25,000 palliative allowance that has been pending since 2023, according to reports from Vanguard.
The pensioners in the diaspora have expressed solidarity with retirees in Nigeria and will participate in the protest from their respective countries, transforming it into a global demonstration.
He requested President Bola Tinubu to take action and instruct the Minister of Finance and the Accountant-General of the Federation to disburse the funds.
He stated that numerous pensioners have passed away and continue to do so due to financial difficulties, as they struggle to afford adequate nutrition and proper medical care when unwell.
We were informed that our arrears would be settled within two weeks of approval; however, no action has been taken thus far.
“Should payment not be received by November 23, all pensioners across the nation will initiate a protest on November 24,” Ogunbote stated.
He expressed concern that, although workers had received their allowances, pensioners were excluded.
“Employees were granted the N35,000 palliative within a month; however, pensioners have yet to receive the N25,000 that was approved for us.” We are more susceptible than others.
“We respectfully request President Ahmed to intervene in this matter,” he stated.
Ogunbote urged the government to settle the outstanding payments before December to facilitate preparations for the Christmas celebration.
He expressed disapproval of the Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, for not providing more robust support to the pensioners in their pursuit of payment disbursements.
He emphasized the need for solidarity among workers to confront the injustices imposed by the government, noting that the administration prioritized payments for other initiatives while overlooking the needs of pensioners.
He also urged the Minister of Finance and the Accountant General to expedite the release of the owed funds, as numerous pensioners were facing significant challenges to meet their basic needs.
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