Tag: Pensioners

The Coalition of Federal Pensioners of Nigeria has warned it will hold a nationwide naked protest on November 24 if the government fails to pay outstanding pension increment arrears and palliative allowances. National Chairman Mukaila Ogunbote, who also leads the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NIPOST Chapter), made the announcement at a news conference in Lagos on Tuesday. He said retirees would act if the Federal Government does not release the approved N32,000 pension increment arrears and N25,000 palliative allowance, both due since 2023. Ogunbote added that pensioners living abroad have expressed solidarity with their Nigerian counterparts and plan to join the protest from their countries, making it a global demonstration. He appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene and direct the Minister of Finance and the Accountant-General of the Federation to release the overdue funds. He highlighted the hardship facing retirees, noting that many have died or are struggling due to poor access to food and medical care. “We were told our arrears would be paid within two weeks of approval, yet nothing has been done. If by November 23 payment is not made, all pensioners nationwide will embark on a naked protest on November 24,” Ogunbote said. Ogunbote also criticized the disparity between workers and pensioners, saying while workers quickly received the N35,000 palliative allowance, pensioners have yet to get the N25,000 approved for them. He urged the government to settle the arrears before December so retirees can prepare for Christmas. Francis Oluwo, President of the Civil Service Pensioners, accused officials close to President Tinubu of failing to implement directives and stressed that many retirees live in poor conditions, struggling to afford food and medicine. He said the naked protest was necessary to push the government into action. Bridget Obieto, Assistant Secretary of the Voice of Nigeria Pensioners Association, called on the Nigeria Labour Congress to support pensioners in securing their dues. She urged the President and First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, to prioritize retirees’ welfare so they can enjoy the festive season with dignity. Elijah Akindutire, Chairman Emeritus of NIPOST Pensioners, also called on the government to release the arrears, stressing that pensioners need the funds to meet basic needs. He encouraged a strong turnout at the November 24 protest to show retirees’ determination.