The Ondo State government, on Thursday, flagged off payment of N1 billion as gratuity to teachers and local government workers who retired in 2011.
Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, represented by his Special Adviser on Union Matters and Special Duties, Mr. Dare Aragbaiye, said the state government sources the N1bn from the October allocation from the federation account.
The governor, who said the payment of N1bn marked gradual defrayment of the backlog of gratuity arrears for retirees of Local Government and Primary school teachers, added that another tranche would soon be paid within the first quarter of next year.
According to him, his administration has paid all outstanding salaries and pension including allowances of all retirees left by the previous administration.
He said, “We want to make sure pensioners in the state do not suffer anymore. We are making efforts to rid our communities of miscreants and criminals as well as those who engage in cult related activities in our dear state.
“The State Government is continually committing enormous resources to strengthening the Amotekun Corps in terms of equipment and human resources.
“This is in addition to the provision of funds and other logistical support to other sister security agencies operating in Ondo State. Our government cannot tolerate a situation where our citizens cannot conduct their daily businesses in a safe environment.”
The state Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon Takuro Amidu, disclosed that the payment of the gratuity was initiated by Governor Akeredolu by ensuring that some money was saved every month, saying the state government was poised to take care of senior citizens.
Some of the pensioners who commended the state government said it was suicidal for them to survive 12 years without collecting their gratuities.
One of them, Chief Ojo Samuel, said it was difficult for him to cope with situations of life after he retired and his gratuity was not paid.
“We thank God we are alive to collect and enjoy our benefit.”
The Chairman of pensioners in Ondo State, Johnson Osunyemi, said the payment of N1bn was a reassurance that the Governor would do more for them and said the pensioners have not witnessed such good gestures in the state.
. TheWitness
