Maroc - VERACITY.COM.NG - A La Une - 14/Feb 19:28

Aiyedatiwa pledges to settle all outstanding gratuities for retirees

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has reaffirmed his commitment to clearing all outstanding gratuities owed to retirees in the state. This follows the recent disbursement of N2.5 billion for the payment of 2013 local government retirees.Speaking on Friday in Akure during the flag-off ceremony for the fourth tranche of bulk gratuity payments, Aiyedatiwa assured pensioners that his administration has put in place a structured system for the regular warehousing of funds to facilitate timely payments."Under our administration, a dedicated system has been established to ensure consistent funding for gratuity payments at both the state and local government levels. This strategy has significantly aided the bulk settlement of pensioners' entitlements in Ondo State," he stated.The governor emphasized his unwavering commitment to this initiative, vowing to clear all gratuities owed to retirees."I want to assure you that we are fully committed to this plan. Until the last kobo owed to our retirees is paid, we will not relent," Aiyedatiwa declared.He further stressed that the payment of gratuities is not a political strategy but a reflection of his administration's sincerity and dedication to the welfare of the people. He reaffirmed his commitment to infrastructural development and social welfare initiatives aimed at enhancing the well-being of citizens, particularly the elderly and vulnerable groups.Expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support he received during the November 16 governorship election, Aiyedatiwa urged continuous prayers for his administration, assuring residents of an era of unprecedented good governance and development.Also speaking at the event, the state’s Head of Service, Pastor Bayo Philip, lauded the governor’s efforts in prioritizing pensioners' welfare."The governor has consistently demonstrated his dedication to ensuring retirees receive their entitlements. His commitment transcends party or ethnic lines; it is about genuine service to the people," Philip noted.Similarly, the State President of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP), Elder Johnson Osunyemi, appreciated the governor’s commitment, highlighting that Aiyedatiwa has also been implementing consequential adjustments in pension payments.With this initiative, the governor reassured pensioners that his administration remains steadfast in fulfilling its obligations to retirees across the state.