Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has announced the establishment of a new committee aimed at resolving the state’s pension backlog, signaling a renewed commitment to honest dialogue and inclusive decision-making.
Governor Otti made this declaration on Tuesday while receiving the national leadership of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners, NUP, at his residence in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.
Speaking during the visit, Otti reiterated that although the current pension crisis predates his administration, he remains committed to addressing the challenges with transparency and goodwill. He acknowledged the complexity of the situation, stressing that solving it requires collaboration between the government and pensioners.
“The backlog of pensions continues to grow as new retirees emerge,” he noted, “but we have the political will to find a sustainable solution. On assumption of office, I immediately opened discussions with the state leadership of the NUP.”
He revealed that his administration had secured ₦10 billion to begin clearing arrears. Pensioners owed ₦1 million or less were paid in full, while those with higher amounts received partial payments.
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However, despite these efforts, Otti expressed disappointment over the misrepresentation of facts by the state chapter of the NUP, which he said had hampered further reconciliation.
Responding to these tensions, the National President of the NUP, Mr. Godwin Abumisi, appealed to the governor to forgive the local union leaders. He explained that a controversial document signed with the state government regarding gratuities had been done “in ignorance.”
“I am here to plead with you to discard that document,” Abumisi said. “They didn’t fully understand what they signed. After they returned to Abuja and briefed me, I knew it was a mistake. Please forgive them. Let’s start afresh.”
Abumisi also praised Governor Otti for prioritizing infrastructure, salaries, and pensions, describing him as a “star performer” among governors.
In a swift move to renew the reconciliation process, Governor Otti immediately inaugurated a negotiation committee headed by his Special Assistant on Labour Matters, Mr. Godson Anucha. Other members of the committee include Secretary to the State Government Prof. Kenneth Kalu, Chief of Staff Dr. Caleb Ajagba, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, and Special Assistant on Special Duties Dr. Betty Emeka-Obasi.
The committee is expected to re-engage with the pensioners and recommend a clear and equitable roadmap to address the backlog, while avoiding a repeat of previous misunderstandings.
Otti emphasized that his goal is to provide lasting relief for retired workers and ensure future retirees are treated with dignity. “We will continue to engage sincerely, but we also expect sincerity from all stakeholders,” he concluded.
NAN
