Edo Pensioners Urge Governor for Timely Payment of Benefits

Pensioners in Edo State have appealed to Governor Mondai Okpebholo for the swift payment of their entitlements, which have been delayed for up to seven months. Investigations revealed that a memo authorizing the release of outstanding pension payments and addressing a funding shortfall has not yet been approved by the governor.

The Permanent Secretary of the contributory pension scheme indicated that retirees are entitled to benefits based on their Retirement Savings Account (RSA), but the current balance falls short of the statutory entitlements due to budgetary deficits. Pension experts noted that once provisions are made in the budget, the administrative process should not hinder disbursement.

The head of service has met with labor leaders to discuss the issue, assuring them that the government is working towards a resolution, although no specific timeline has been provided. The prolonged uncertainty continues to place financial strain on retirees, who depend on government funds for their entitlements.