The Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has approved the release of another N1 billion gratuity in fulfilment of his promise to cater to the welfare of pensioners.
The Permanent Secretary, Bureau of State Pensions, Mr. Adesoji Adewuyi, gave this hinton Monday in his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta
Adewuyi explained that the money was released to cater for the state pension payments in two batches, with the first batch for pensioners in October 2014 list, as well as the outstanding of Basic, Rent and Transport (BRT) allowance for the month of March, 2013, while pensioners with urgent medical needs or hospital bills would be considered from the gratuity.
He further clarified that the second batch of the gratuity would be paid to pensioners who were listed for November 2014, adding that the Basic, Rent and Transport (BRT) allowances for the remaining pensioners in March and April 2013, would equally be taken care of.
Adewuyi commended the governor for his commitment towards the plight of the senior citizens, adding that the gesture would go a long way in bringing a positive impact to the lives of the pensioners and enjoined those who were still awaiting payment to be patient with the present administration, as it would soon be their turn.
It would be recalled that the state government had, in the last six months, released about N1.7 billion as gratuity for retired civil servants in the state.
The disbursements cover full payment from September 2014 to November 2014; BRT balance covering January 2013 to May 2013; gratuity of retired judges; pensioners with health challenges and payment of gratuity of some permanent secretaries.
Some of the beneficiaries, who spoke on the development, thanked God for sparing their lives to reap the fruits of their labour.
They appreciated the governor for keeping to his promises and prayed that God would continue to guide and protect him in steering the ship of the state.
