The Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP) has vowed to mobilise its members across the Southwest region to vote against any political officeholder or candidate who fails to prioritise the welfare and well-being of pensioners in forthcoming elections.
This strong warning was issued by the South-West Zonal Public Relations Officer of the union, Dr. Olusegun Abatan, in a communiqué released after the South-West Zonal Council meeting of the NUP, held on Thursday in Akure and hosted by the Ondo State Council of the union.
Dr. Abatan expressed frustration over the prolonged neglect of pensioners, many of whom continue to suffer due to unpaid gratuities and pensions. According to him, the union has resolved to adopt a firm political stance ahead of the next general elections.
“The political firmament has been suffused by a lot of crisscrossing and shenanigans all over the place. We want to appeal to pensioners to please keep calm and watch the events as they unfold,” Abatan said.
“What we are going to do when it comes to elections, we will inform our members. We shall not vote into office—whether it’s for a second term or first term—those who will not cater for our members’ welfare and well-being.”
He stressed that the days of passive observation were over and that the union would no longer support politicians who have consistently ignored the plight of retirees.
Despite the strong warning, Abatan commended a few state governors who have demonstrated genuine commitment to pensioners’ welfare. He particularly praised the Ondo State Governor for paying N8.8 billion in gratuity arrears within the last two months, adding that the administration also provided pilgrimage slots to some pensioners.
He also applauded the Oyo State Governor for releasing over N2 billion to pensioners and for ensuring regular monthly pension payments in the state.
On the issue of unpaid pensioners who were affected by the collapse of the defunct Heritage Bank, Abatan urged them to remain patient. He assured them that the issue had been resolved and that payments would resume in the coming weeks.
The communiqué concluded with a clear message: the union is ready to become a powerful political force in the region and will no longer support any government or politician that fails to uphold the dignity and rights of retired public servants.
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