By Onyekachi Eze
Hope is said to be coming to the long owed pensioners in Imo, as the State government led by Rt Hon Emeka Ihedioha is not leaving any stone unturned in giving the retirees a deserved attention and due rights.
This is in tandem to the newly constituted committee, expected to look into pension matters, and better ways of offsetting all accrued debts owed them.
It would be recalled that while the Rescue Mission administration of Rochas Okorocha lasted for 8 years, there had been series of claims and counter claims from both parties (government and pensioners) about the slash in pension payment and likely neglect.
As a way of avoiding the recurring decimal, the incumbent governor has made a move to addressing the issue.
In a press release from the cabinet office, signed by the Secretary to the Government of Imo State, Uche Onyeaguocha Esq, a 13-man committee has been set up to come up with causes, and possible solutions regarding pension payments.
Members of the committee comprises; Mr. Evans C. Uzokwe (HOS Rtd.) – Chairman; Mr. Nnaemeka Nnoromele – Secretary; Sir Tim Azubuike; Hon. Barr. Mike Ndubuaku (Chairman Local Government Service Commission and Chairman Local Government Pensions Board); Barr Chima Nwanna (D-COS); Pst. Livy Ashiegbu;
Permanent Secretary, Office of the HOS; Office of the Accountant General’s Representative; Representative of Nigeria Labour Congress; Representative of Trade Union Congress; Mr. J.O. Eze; F.I. Agba; and,
Chief Okey Ewunonu.
According to the press statement, they are “To ascertain the exact number of months of arrears of Pensions owed State Pensioners”.
“To ascertain the exact number of months of arrears of Pensions owed Local Government Pensioners”.
“To Suggest the best way to verifying and capturing all existing Pensioners who retired from the State Public Service”.
“To suggest the best way of verifying and capturing all existing Pensioners who retired from the Local Government System”.
“To determine the actual number of Pensioners in the State and Local Governments respectively”.
“To advise the Government on the sustainable ways to pay Pensions regularly”.
“To advise the Government on the propriety of introducing and embracing the Contributory Pension Scheme in Imo State”.
“To make any other recommendations that will assist the Government of Imo State in tackling the problem of Pension payment”.
Information obtained from the press statement states that they will be inaugurated today, and to complete the assignment within two months duration.
