Pensioners in the South-West have decried worsening economic hardship, attributing their plight to rising energy costs linked to global tensions, and warned of possible legal action against state governments over unpaid gratuities.
The retirees said the surge in petroleum prices has triggered inflation in the cost of goods and services, largely driven by increased transportation expenses, thereby deepening the country’s economic challenges.
They noted that aside from Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, who approved a N10,000 monthly palliative for workers and pensioners, other state governments in the region, as well as the Federal Government, had yet to take meaningful steps to cushion the impact of the hardship.
The pensioners issued the warning during the bi-monthly meeting of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, South-West Zone, held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Speaking with journalists, the Public Relations Officer of the union in the zone, Olusegun Abatan, said the prevailing economic situation had worsened living conditions for retirees.
He linked the rising cost of living to global conflicts affecting energy prices, noting that inflation had significantly eroded the purchasing power of Nigerians.
According to him, many pensioners are struggling to meet basic needs as the cost of essential goods continues to climb.
Abatan lamented that despite the hardship, the government had not taken sufficient measures to support vulnerable citizens, particularly retirees.
He, however, commended Makinde for introducing a temporary monthly support of N10,000, describing the move as a welcome relief.
The union urged other state governments and the Federal Government to adopt similar measures to ease the burden on pensioners.
Abatan further disclosed that the union would recognise Makinde and Ondo State Governor, Lucky Ayedatiwa, for their support to pensioners in the region.
He warned that the union might resort to legal action against governors who fail to settle outstanding gratuities, some of which, he said, had remained unpaid for over a decade.
“We have appealed repeatedly, but many of them have not responded. We may be left with no option than to seek redress in court,” he said.
The pensioners also criticised the current minimum pension of N25,000 as inadequate, calling on labour unions to push for a more realistic wage and pension structure.
While acknowledging efforts by Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, in clearing part of the gratuity backlog and supporting the contributory pension scheme, they faulted the continued delay in implementing pension increases approved since 2010 and the 2019 adjustment.
On the 2027 general elections, the union urged pensioners and Nigerians to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards and support leaders committed to improving their welfare.
They emphasised the need for voters to make informed choices, warning against electing leaders who fail to prioritise the well-being of citizens.
