The Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has apologised on behalf of the previous administration for their failure in paying the outstanding gratuity to the retirees
The Governor therefore says the current administration would continue to improve on the welfare of the pensioners in appreciation of their meritorious service to the state.
Governor Abiodun made the submission midweek at the payment of gratuity to retirees of the state and local governments at the June 12 cultural centre, Abeokuta.
Governor Abiodun explained that the event was a symbolic demonstration of the current administration’s determination in keeping promise to the workers stating that government would not renege in fulfiling its promises to the entire workers in the state.
Mr Governor said immediately after inauguration, government carried out some steps to review the conditions of the workers and the welfare of the elders, but the outbreak of the global pandemic has posed a serious challenge to its financial strength , stating that despite the global pandemic government has kept its promises by paying the national minimum wage and other allowances to the workers.
The Governor stated that the 500 million naira set aside for the payment of the retirees from local government in 2011 and that of state in 2014 would be increased by next quarter when the economic situation of the state improve, adding that the payment of the retirees would be a continous exercise.
He advised the retirees to key into the social and welfare programmes of the government especially Okowo Dapo and the Anchor Borrowers Programme to keep themselves busy
Describing the retirees as an embodiment of wisdom, Mr. Governor urged them to continue supporting the government with advices in order to join hands in building Ogun State of their dream
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Pension, Mr Sodeinde Olukunle thanked Governor Abiodun for keeping his promise to the workers, adding that prompt payment of monthly deductions by the government is a welcome development.
The Chairman, Ogun State Union of Pensioners, Comrade Waheed Oloyede desscribed the Governor as a promise keeper for releasing the money to the retirees which they had been looking forward to for many years.
