Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has restated his administration’s commitment to resolving lingering pension issues through honest dialogue, collaboration, and inclusive decision-making.
Governor Otti made this known on Tuesday when the national leadership of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP) paid him a courtesy visit at his country home in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.
He emphasized that addressing the state’s pension challenges requires collective goodwill, deep reflection, and constructive engagement from all stakeholders. While clarifying that the pension backlog predates his administration, Otti reaffirmed his willingness to take responsibility and work towards a lasting solution.
“The exact figure of the pension arrears remains fluid,” the governor noted, “as obligations continue to grow with ongoing retirements. However, we have the political will to address the issue, and I am confident we can find a workable and sustainable solution.”
He recalled that shortly after assuming office, he invited leaders of the state chapter of NUP to initiate dialogue on the pension crisis. As part of early interventions, the administration secured N10 billion to offset a portion of the arrears. According to him, pensioners owed N1 million or less were paid in full, while those with larger entitlements received partial payments.
Despite the intervention, Otti said efforts at reconciliation were hampered by the state NUP leadership, whom he accused of misrepresenting facts and frustrating sincere attempts to resolve the crisis.
Earlier in his remarks, NUP National President, Mr. Godwin Abumisi, appealed to the governor to forgive the state chapter of the union and reopen discussions. He said the agreement signed between the state NUP officials and the government regarding gratuity was done “in ignorance” and urged that it be set aside.
“Whatever document they signed with the state government concerning gratuity was signed without proper understanding,” Abumisi said. “I am here to plead with Your Excellency to disregard that document. After they signed it, they reported to me in Abuja, and I told them it was not acceptable. I plead with you to forgive them—they did not know what they were doing.”
Abumisi commended Governor Otti for prioritizing workers’ welfare, especially salaries, pensions, and infrastructure, describing him as a “star performer.”
In response, Governor Otti immediately announced the formation of a negotiating team to revisit the pension issue. The team will be led by his Special Assistant on Labour Matters, Mr. Godson Anucha.
Other members include the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Kenneth Kalu; Chief of Staff, Dr. Caleb Ajagba; Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma; and Special Assistant to the Governor on Special Duties, Dr. Betty Emeka-Obasi.
The governor said the team would begin immediate consultations with all relevant stakeholders to find a fair and lasting resolution to the pension crisis.
NAN
