Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has approved the disbursement of N1 billion gratuity to local government retirees.
He said his administration is reviewing the template for the payment of gratuity to retirees to speed up the payment of the government’s backlog.
Aiyedatiwa said the development was in continuation of his administration’s efforts towards promoting the welfare of retirees in the state.
The governor stated this during the flag-off in Akure for the second batch of bulk payments of N1 billion of outstanding gratuities to local government retirees.
Her recalled previous payments made under his administration, noting the substantial relief provided to many retirees and adding that such regular payments would continue.
Aiyedatiwa said, “Today is another landmark in our avowed commitment to the welfare of our people, including workers in Service and at retirement in the Sunshine State.
“In November 2023, the first batch of this innovative bulk payment of outstanding gratuity of our former local government staff and primary school teachers was carried out. In January 2024, another flag-off of payment of one billion and two hundred million naira (N1.2b) was also performed for the year 2014 pensioners of the state civil service.”
The Governor said the current batch focuses predominantly on LG retirees from 2012 and aims to settle remaining arrears from previous years, reiterating his administration’s dedication to the consistent and fair payment of pensions and gratuities.
The governor also addressed concerns about the fairness of the payment process, assuring that the system in place prioritises equity, fairness, and transparency.
He urged those who were not included in this batch to remain hopeful as the administration continues its efforts to maximize the happiness and welfare of the greatest number of people.
In his welcome address, the commissioner for local government and chieftaincy affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, thanked the governor for his prompt action and acknowledged that retirees have been facing hardship for many years.
Takuro said the governor had tasked him with saving funds specifically to pay pensioners. He highlighted the gratitude retirees have expressed towards the governor for his compassion and dedication to their welfare.
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