Federal pensioners under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) have reached out to the coordinating Minister of Finance and National Economy, Wale Edun, urging the government to release the accrued gratuities owed to them, which span from March 2023 to November 2024. The pensioners had previously organized a peaceful rally at the Ministry of Finance on November 12, 2024, where they expressed gratitude for the minister’s gracious handling of their concerns. Despite this, dissatisfaction remains as their pension payments have not been fulfilled, prompting them to formally outline their demands to the government for resolution.
The collection of outstanding payments totals 21 months of accrued rights owed to retired public workers during the specified period, which has created significant financial hardship for many retirees. In addition to the unpaid gratuities, the pensioners are also petitioning for payment of various pension increments that have not yet been processed. These include a 15 percent increase that was promised in 2007, a 33 percent increase in 2010, and further increments ranging from 20 to 28 percent scheduled for 2024. The pensioners emphasize that these adjustments are not merely requests but essential components of their welfare, reflecting their years of service in the public sector.
The pensioners’ union leadership has officially mandated their members to pursue these demands vigorously, signaling a willingness to escalate their actions if necessary. They are advocating for the declaration of a state of emergency within the CPS sector as a necessary step for the government to address its financial responsibilities towards pensioners. This declaration would highlight the urgency of the issue and ensure that the government prioritizes the clearance of these outstanding liabilities without further delay.
In a firm stance against inaction, the pensioners have announced their intent to occupy the Federal Ministry of Finance and the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation in Abuja starting from 12 pm on December 16, 2024. This protest aims to draw public attention to their plight and insist on immediate government action. The pensioners’ leadership underscores that this is not merely a personal grievance but a collective movement backed by their nationwide membership, showcasing solidarity and determination to see their demands fulfilled.
Their central demands state that the federal government must promptly release all outstanding payments, including the 21 months of accrued rights. Furthermore, they assert the need for comprehensive disbursement of all unpaid pension increments from past years, including adjustments related to consequential changes in the national minimum wage. The urgency of their calls for a 20 to 28 percent pension increase in 2024 is emphasized as vital to maintaining the dignity and financial stability of pensioners in Nigeria.
The ongoing situation with the CPS highlights not only the struggles of pensioners in Nigeria but also raises broader issues regarding the management and sustainability of the pension system in the country. As the retirees prepare for a potential demonstration at key governmental offices, their hope is to evoke a sense of responsibility within the government to honor its financial obligations. By articulating their demands clearly and standing united, these pensioners aim to ensure that their rights as retired public servants are recognized and acted upon before the approaching deadline of December 16, 2024.
