Security expert Sir Chikwe Udensi has waded into the ongoing pension crisis in Abia State, condemning the government’s handling of unpaid pension arrears and the protests by retirees.
A group known as Concerned Abia Pensioners has accused the state government of failing to honor a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed with the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP), fueling tensions in the region.
Governor Alex Otti recently dismissed calls to revisit the contentious issue, labeling the NUP leadership as “dishonest people.” He further refused to negotiate over the arrears, causing widespread dissatisfaction among pensioners.
Udensi, a prominent security consultant, sharply criticized Otti’s position, arguing that pensioners are entitled to their dues and that the government’s failure to honor its obligations amounts to a betrayal of campaign promises made to the people of Abia.
“Do not forget very clearly that during the election, Governor Alex Otti promised that before December, he would pay all arrears of pensions and gratuities. It was a major campaign issue. But today, he is now saying the issue is closed,” Udensi stated.
The pension crisis has sparked widespread protests, with retirees accusing the government of failing to follow through on its commitments. Many pensioners have expressed frustration over the continued delays in payment, which has left them struggling to meet their basic needs.
Udensi also took issue with Otti’s characterization of pension payments as acts of “magnanimity,” stressing that it is not a charitable gesture but a fundamental duty of the government.
“I heard the governor say it is out of his magnanimity that he started paying pensioners. No! It is not out of your magnanimity. It is your duty!” Udensi asserted.
The security expert advised Governor Otti to pay what the state can afford, leaving any outstanding arrears for future administrations to address, rather than completely dismissing the issue.
“Anyone that he cannot pay, he should leave for incoming governments. But do not say the issue is closed,” Udensi urged, emphasizing that pensioners deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.
The ongoing crisis has drawn attention to the state government’s handling of pension obligations and its commitment to fulfilling promises made during the election campaign. With the protests showing no signs of abating, many are calling for urgent action to address the growing discontent among retirees.