More than 400 pensioners from Ebonyi State University, EBSU, have petitioned Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru to intercede in the payment of their unpaid pensions and gratuities, citing years of hardship after retirement.
The retirees made the appeal on Wednesday during a courtesy visit to Rev. Fr. Abraham Nwali, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the University’s Governing Council, in Abakaliki.
The Chairman of the Retirees, Mr. Emeka Ugwoke, stated that members who retired between 2017 and the present have not yet received their full retirement benefits, despite their years of loyal service to the institution.
Ugwoke reported that while some retirees received partial payments under former Governor David Umahi’s administration, others are still waiting for their pensions and gratuities to be settled years after leaving service.
He, along with other retirees, including Elder Elebe Michael and Mr. James Nwali, denounced what they termed as selective distribution of retirement payments in the state. The delay had exposed many pensioners to significant financial and health issues.
The retirees denied that the 2009 salary consolidation included gratuity payments, stating that it solely covered wage components such pension contributions, housing, transportation, and leave allowances.
The Pro-Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Abraham Nwali, recognised the retirees’ concerns and told them that efforts were underway to schedule a meeting with Governor Francis Nwifuru to find a sustainable solution.
He believes the governor’s People’s Charter of Needs administration will prioritise the concerns.
Fr. Nwali stated that Ebonyi State University is being gazetted in compliance with the law. He also encouraged pensioners to be patient as conversations with the state administration continue to resolve their issues.