Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has re-iterated his commitment to offset all pension arrears owed pensioners in the state. This he said will be done as soon as the verification exercise for the pensioners is concluded.
The commissioner for Information and Culture, Prince Okey Kanu, made this known while briefing journalists at the Government House, Umuahia, on Monday after this week’s State Executive Council (SEC) meeting presided over by Governor Otti.
“Let me reiterate the government’s position to pay off all outstanding pensions once the verification exercise is done,” a statement from the state government added.
“It is a promise that was made during the campaigns and since this government came on board, it is a promise that will be kept.
“Before the end of the year, all outstanding pensions will be paid as soon as the verification exercise is concluded”.
Prince Kanu lauded the efficient manner the pensioners’ verification process is being conducted in the state and expressed optimism that the smooth progress of the exercise might lead to its conclusion by the next week.
The commissioner noted that the exercise has garnered widespread commendation throughout the state for its exceptional execution and added that pensioners are delighted with the unprecedented care shown during the process.
He said that the verification team extended their services to the homes of elderly pensioners who could not travel, those who were unable to attend in person were guided to utilize the sub-treasury while those residing far from the verification centers were provided with online codes ensuring access to the verification process.
