Delta pensioners lament over Gov Okowa’s failure to pay pension

Pensioners in Delta State have complained that the state government has not paid their arrears on their pensions.

In order to celebrate the season, the pensioners pleaded with governor Ifeanyi Okowa to release their pension arrears; however, if their requests were not met, they vowed to organize another round of protests against the Delta State Government.

The retirees reported that the state refused to pay the 33% pension increase that was granted to all pensioners after their meeting at the Labour House in Asaba.

Silver Savede spoke on behalf of the retirees and voiced dissatisfaction with the government’s approach to the payment of their pension.

He said, “We, the defined benefits scheme pensioners, with utmost dismay how the Delta State Government treats the pensioners.

He stated, “We, the defined benefits scheme pensioners, with utmost dismay how the Delta State Government treats the pensioners.

“For almost four years now, the Defined Benefits Scheme Pensioners have been demanding in writing to meet with Governor Ifeanyi Okowa to discuss the issues affecting us.

“Non of this letters were replied. This issues that are agitating the minds of pensioners. Okowa should pay us the outstanding arrears of 99 months.

“Okowa should implement the payment of arrears consequential adjustment of pension of monthly pay occasioned the N30,000 minimum wage.

“Tomorrow is Christmas, no payment, how do they want us to eat? Our people are dying.”

Governor Okowa was given a two-week deadline by the pensioners to comply with their demands or face more protests.