Frequent verification exercise ploy to deny us our money – Imo pensioners cry out
Pensioners Union Criticizes Verification Process, Claims Neglect by Government
The Pensioners Intervention Committee (PIC) has expressed strong discontent with the ongoing pension verification process, declaring it ineffective and a misuse of public resources. In a press statement released by Chairman Iyke Ohaneje and Secretary Charles Amadi, the union highlighted the frustrations of pensioners who are repeatedly required to queue for verification, yet see little to no results from the effort.
The union criticized the verification system as unnecessary, emphasizing that retired officers are already issued Identification Cards to facilitate their interactions with the government. They argued that the verification exercise squanders both time and taxpayer money, calling for accountability among those responsible for the process.
According to the PIC, withholding pensions amounts to negligence and disregards the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. They pointed out that pensions are not included in a governor’s appropriation bill and should not be withheld regardless of the status of the bill’s approval.
Additionally, the union raised concerns over the payment system, noting that the State Accountant General, who is legally responsible for disbursing pensions, is no longer in charge of the program. They claimed that the individuals currently managing pension payments lack a proper understanding of the laws governing pension benefits.
“The current payment practices appear arbitrary, with funds being allocated based on whims rather than rights,” the union stated in its release. They criticized the selective nature of pension payments, which reportedly prioritize smaller benefit amounts, violating an official oath to administer services fairly.
The union further indicated that the government’s handling of pension disbursements is causing unnecessary family tensions, as retirees are falsely informed that all members have received payments. This misinformation has reportedly led to conflicts between retirees, their families, and creditors.
Emphasizing the need for regular pension adjustments, the Imo chapter of the NUP noted that pensions should be reviewed every five years or aligned with salary increases, whichever occurs first, to mitigate the effects of inflation. They lamented the absence of such adjustments since 2003, which has left many retirees with inadequate payments.
The union condemned the repeated verification requirements, stating that they demonstrate a lack of respect for individuals who dedicated their careers to public service. They also denounced the failure to pay death benefits to the families of deceased retirees, which they argue contradicts cultural norms of honoring the deceased.
In conclusion, the NUP asserted that withholding pension payments is both unpatriotic and illegal, as it contravenes Section 210 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria and Section 18 of the Pension Act.
