Edo State’s Governor Monday Okpebholo has approved the payment of gratuities owed to pensioners since 2012.
Breaking the news via a statement on Monday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the state government said it had commenced the disbursement of N1 billion as the first batch of payments, fulfilling a commitment to clear the backlog inherited from previous administrations.
Okpebholo said his administration was committed to prioritizing the welfare of retired civil servants who had dedicated their years of service to the state.
The statement added, “For over a decade, many of our retirees have suffered due to the non-payment of their gratuities. This administration is putting an end to that hardship.
“I have approved the release of N1 billion for the first phase of payments, and we will not rest until all outstanding entitlements are cleared.”
According to the Governor, the current state administration was committed to restoring the dignity of pensioners by ensuring that they receive their due benefits without further delay.
He said: “We recognise the sacrifices made by our retirees, and it is unacceptable that they have had to wait this long for what is rightfully theirs.
“Our administration will not only clear these arrears but will also put measures in place to ensure such delays do not happen in the future.”
He reaffirmed that his administration’s goal is to clear all outstanding gratuities in phases, ensuring that retirees enjoyed the fruits of their labour.
According to the Governor, the disbursement process would be transparent and fair, with pensioners receiving payments in batches based on a structured verification process: “This is just the beginning. We will not abandon our pensioners. We are determined to ensure that those who served Edo State diligently are treated with the respect and care they deserve.”
