Registration Of Parallel Pensioners’ Union Contravenes Law, NUP Tells Ministry

The Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) has faulted the recent registration of a new retirees’ body by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, describing the move as a violation of the Trade Unions Act.

The pensioners, while calling on President Bola Tinubu to urgently intervene and halt what it described as an attempt to “balkanise” the union, said the registration of the Association of Retirees of State Government amounts to the creation of a parallel structure that undermines its legal status and long-standing role as the umbrella body for pensioners in the country.

Speaking during an emergency meeting of the National Executive Council (NEC) in Abuja, NUP National President, Godwin Abumisi, said the ministry’s action contravenes extant labour laws and threatens the unity and collective strength of pensioners.

He emphasised the need for pensioners to be united to advocate for improved welfare for retirees and senior citizens.

“Our meeting today is a rescue mission to prevent our union from being plunged into avoidable crises, especially by the untoward activities of the ministry,” Abumisi said.

He maintained that the registration of a parallel retirees’ association runs contrary to provisions of the Trade Unions Act, which regulates the formation and operation of trade unions in Nigeria.

“It is already public knowledge that the ministry recently registered a body known as the Association of Retirees of State Government. This is a calculated attempt to destabilise the unity, solidarity and peace that have existed within our union for decades,” he added.

The NUP president called on members to resist what he described as an unlawful encroachment, urging unity and discipline among union leaders and stakeholders.

Despite the criticism, Abumisi reaffirmed the union’s commitment to maintaining a cordial relationship with the Federal Government, particularly under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He commended recent reforms in the pension sector, including the release of N58 billion for Defined Benefit Scheme pensioners and N758 billion for contributory pension increases, noting that the interventions have brought relief to retirees.

According to him, while the union remains appreciative of these efforts, such progress could be undermined if actions that could create division among pensioners are allowed to persist.

He urged members to remain focused and avoid sentiments that could threaten the union’s unity and relevance, stressing the need for collective responsibility in addressing the current challenge.