Pensioners Give FG November 24 Deadline, Threaten Nationwide Naked Protest Over Unpaid Arrears
The Coalition of Federal Pensioners of Nigeria has issued a stern ultimatum to the Federal Government, threatening a nationwide “naked protest” on November 24 if their outstanding pension arrears and palliative allowances remain unpaid.
The coalition’s National Chairman, Mukaila Ogunbote, who also heads the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NIPOST Chapter), made the declaration at a press conference held in Lagos on Tuesday.
Ogunbote said the protest would proceed if the Federal Government failed to fulfil its promise of paying the ₦32,000 approved pension increment arrears and the ₦25,000 palliative allowance announced since 2023.
“We were told that our arrears would be paid within two weeks of approval, yet nothing has been done,” he said.
“If by November 23 we do not receive payment, all pensioners nationwide will embark on a naked protest on November 24.”
He revealed that pensioners in the diaspora have pledged solidarity and would join the demonstration from their respective countries, turning the event into a global protest.
Ogunbote lamented that while active workers have received their ₦35,000 palliative, retirees have been left out despite being “more vulnerable than anyone else.”
“Many pensioners have died, and many more are dying due to hardship. They can’t feed well or afford medical treatment.
We are appealing to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and direct the Minister of Finance and the Accountant-General to release our funds,” he added.
He urged the government to pay the arrears before December to allow retirees to prepare for Christmas “with dignity and peace.”
The pensioners also expressed disappointment in the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) for what they described as a lack of active support in pressing their demands. Ogunbote accused the government of “prioritising other expenditures while neglecting pensioners.”
“We have served this country faithfully for over 35 years. Now that we are old, the government must not abandon us,” he said.
Francis Oluwo, President of the Civil Service Pensioners, echoed the call, claiming that some of those around the President were “not carrying out his directives.”
“The naked protest has become necessary to make the government take us seriously. Many retirees are living in poor health conditions and can barely afford medication or food,” Oluwo said.
Bridget Obieto, Assistant Secretary of the Voice of Nigeria Pensioners Association, urged the NLC to use its influence to push for prompt payment.
“We appeal to President Bola Tinubu and the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, to ensure payment before December so that we can celebrate the festive season with dignity,” Obieto said.
Elijah Akindutire, Chairman Emeritus of the NUP NIPOST Chapter, also encouraged a mass turnout at the planned protest to show the pensioners’ unity and resolve.