Abia State Governor Addresses Pension Concerns and Educational Reforms
Abia State Governor Alex Otti has reiterated his commitment to addressing the long-standing issue of pension arrears in the state. During a recent public appearance, Governor Otti acknowledged the concerns raised by pensioners and pledged to re-evaluate the existing agreement between the state government and the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP). While recognizing the integrity of the pensioners themselves, the governor expressed reservations about the union’s leadership, suggesting that it has been a source of complications in resolving the pension issue.
Governor Otti recounted the state government’s allocation of N10 billion towards clearing outstanding pension arrears, an action that unexpectedly encountered resistance from NUP leaders. This resistance, according to the governor, stemmed from a lack of belief that the government would fulfill its commitment. He expressed frustration over the NUP leadership’s subsequent denial of the agreement they had signed with the government, indicating a potential breach of trust. Despite his disappointment, Governor Otti, influenced by the intervention of a respected cleric, Rev. Ernest Onyeukwu, committed to revisiting the agreement and seeking a resolution that respects the rights and dignity of the pensioners.
The issue of unpaid pensions dates back to 2018, a period during which no pensions were disbursed to the state’s retirees. Governor Otti pointed out the NUP leadership’s complicity in this failure, indicating their intricate involvement in the prevailing pension system. The current stalemate between the government and the pensioners hinges on the government’s decision to partially settle the arrears, a departure from the initial agreement with the NUP. The governor’s willingness to reconsider the agreement highlights his administration’s commitment to finding a sustainable solution to this protracted issue.
Concurrently, the Abia State House of Assembly has initiated an inquiry into the management of Government College Umuahia (GCU) by the Fisher Education Development Trust (FEDT). The investigation follows allegations raised by an alumnus, Chukwudi Onwudinanti, who contends that the FEDT has transformed GCU into an elitist institution, making it inaccessible to students from local communities. Onwudinanti’s concerns include the demolition of historical school buildings and the replacement with lawns, coupled with allegations of the FEDT’s refusal to allow the Government College Umuahia Old Boys Association (GCUOBA) to nominate members to the school board.
The House of Assembly’s Joint Committee on Education, Public Petition, and Judiciary is leading the investigation, with the former National President of GCUOBA, 86-year-old Prof Dagogo Fubara, providing compelling testimony. Dr. Chinedum Ahaiwe, the current National President of GCUOBA, further alleged that FEDT officials have withheld the school’s Certificate of Occupancy from the association. These allegations paint a picture of potential mismanagement and lack of transparency on the part of the FEDT.
The committee chairman, Anderson Akaliro, assured a fair hearing, guaranteeing FEDT officials the opportunity to present their case. This commitment to due process emphasizes the House of Assembly’s determination to uncover the truth and ensure that Government College Umuahia continues to serve its intended purpose, providing quality education accessible to all qualified students. The ongoing inquiry underscores the Abia State government’s dedication to educational reforms and upholding the principles of fairness and accountability in the management of public institutions. The outcome of this investigation holds significant implications for the future of GCU and could set a precedent for the management of similar institutions across the state.
