…Call for Enforceable Payment Agreement (EPA) and Rejection of Forfeiture Agreement
The Foundation For Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD), a non-government Organization and Human Rights advocacy group in Abia State, has petitioned the Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, regarding the plight of pensioners in Abia State under his administration.
The Executive Director of FENRAD, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor said: “We seek your urgent intervention to address the non-payment of pension arrears and the introduction of an unjust forfeiture agreement. Additionally, we express concerns over the PASS (Pension Administration System and Structure) in the state, which requires urgent review and reform to ensure efficiency and fairness.”
He explained that Pensioners in Abia State have suffered severe economic hardship due to years of unpaid pensions and gratuities from various administrations.
He added that despite promises from the government, Abia State experienced a backlog of unpaid pensions, and many retirees continue to face difficulties in receiving their rightful entitlements.
He further said: “The move by your administration to address the issue of pension is welcome development and we commend you for prompt payment of the pension under your administration.
“We are worried and concerned with a recent move to introduce a forfeiture agreement that further exacerbates their plight by compelling pensioners to relinquish a portion of their earned benefits (pension and gratuity), a move that we deem illegal, unjust, and exploitative.
“Furthermore, the existing PASS in the state has proven ineffective, causing unnecessary delays and bureaucratic challenges for pensioners.”
The group demanded the implementation of an Enforceable Payment Agreement (EPA).
Nwafor said: “We call on your Government to adopt a legally binding framework for pension payment that guarantees timely and complete disbursement of funds to retirees.
“Rejection of the Forfeiture Agreement: We urge Abia State Government to review policy that seeks to deprive pensioners of their lawful benefits. Such an agreement contradicts the principles of justice and human dignity.
“Immediate Payment of Arrears: The state government should urgently pay outstanding pension arrears and gratuities without further delay or deductions. We demand a comprehensive review and restructuring of the Pension Administration System and Structure to eliminate inefficiencies, reduce delays, and ensure prompt and transparent payments to pensioners.
“We request the Abia State Government to engage in meaningful discussions to ensure transparency and accountability in pension administration.
“The suffering of our senior citizens must not be ignored. We appeal to the Government to take immediate action to protect the rights and welfare of pensioners in Abia State.
“FENRAD remains committed to advocating for justice and ensuring that pensioners receive their lawful entitlements. We will continue to sustain the campaign to ensure your Government live up to their responsibility and fulfil your campaign promise of offsetting the backlog of Pensions and gratuity of Abia State Workplace owned by the previous administration. We look forward to your swift intervention and Quick Resolution of this pressing matter.”
