Nigerian Union of Pensioners Hails Otti's Performance, Pleads for Gratuity Resolution | READ DETAILS

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The National Leadership of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP) has declared Governor Alex Otti of Abia State a "star performer," applauding his leadership and track record of reforms during an official visit to Government House, Umuahia.

Speaking on behalf of the NUP National Executive Council, President Comrade Godwin Abumisi expressed deep regret over the actions of the Abia State branch of the union that led to the recent misunderstanding regarding unresolved gratuity arrears. Abumisi offered a heartfelt apology to Governor Otti and appealed for forgiveness, urging him to revisit the gratuity issue with compassion.

[caption id="attachment_192821" align="alignnone" width="1280"] NUP National Executive Council, President Comrade Godwin Abumisi[/caption]

The NUP president openly admitted that the controversial agreement previously signed between the state union and the Abia State Government was "made in ignorance" and contravened the constitutional rights of pensioners. He also acknowledged that the state leadership indeed signed the agreement which they later publicly denied.

Abumisi, while describing Governor Otti as a model of good governance, commended his transformational strides across critical sectors in the state. He stated that Otti's remarkable achievements have already positioned him for a second term, saying, "With what you have done, Your Excellency, Abia people will not think twice before returning you to power.ÔÇØ

In his response, Governor Alex Otti appreciated the NUP national leadership for the visit and their objective stance. He, however, recounted the series of events that led to the dispute, presenting signed documents and photo evidence to support the state's position.

Governor Otti said he had no issues with the Abia NUP reversing their earlier agreement, but was taken aback by their media denials and contradictory statements, which he described as dishonest and unbecoming of a respected union.

He thanked the NUP president for acknowledging the truth and affirmed that he is committed to revisiting and resolving the gratuity arrears, stressing that he had already made that promise publicly. "I remain committed to resolving this matter because I believe pensioners deserve dignity,ÔÇØ Otti said.

The Governor reiterated that pensioners in Abia are currently receiving their full monthly pensions promptly, which has restored their confidence in government. He also acknowledged the unwavering support of Abia pensioners for his political journey since 2015 and pledged to continue standing by them.

To ensure progress on the issue, Governor Otti directed his Senior Special Assistant on Labour Matters, Comrade Godson Anucha, and other top government officials to work directly with the National Leadership of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners to find a lasting resolution.

The meeting marks a significant turning point in the Otti administration's relationship with pensioners, promising better collaboration and resolution of lingering challenges inherited from past administrations.