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EDO BEGINS GRATUITIES PAYMENTS AFTER 12-YEAR DELAY
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has approved the payment of gratuities owed to pensioners since 2012, a move many say will address the long-standing plight of retired civil servants in the state.
In a statement on Monday by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the state government has commenced the disbursement of N1 billion as the first batch of payments, fulfilling a commitment to clear the backlog inherited from previous administrations.
Okpebholo emphasised his administration’s resolve to prioritise the welfare of retired civil servants who have 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.”
The governor reiterated that his administration is committed to restoring the dignity of pensioners by ensuring that they receive their due benefits without further delay.
“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,” Okpebholo stated.
He reaffirmed that his administration’s goal is to clear all outstanding gratuities in phases, ensuring that retirees enjoy the fruits of their labour.
The governor further assured that 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,” the governor said.
