Oyo LG Pension Board Chair, Ademola Ige, Hails Pensioners’ Gratitude Rally As Best Birthday Gift
•By Oyeniyi Awojoodu
IBADAN – The Chairman of the Oyo State Local Government Pension Board, Hon. Ademola Ige, has joyfully described Thursday’s gratitude and solidarity rally organized by pensioners in the state as a birthday gift for him.
Recall that pensioners from every geo-political zone of the state gathered in large numbers at the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, to express their heartfelt appreciation to Governor Seyi Makinde for significantly improving their financial well-being through a recent pension review.
Represented by the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Oyo State Council, the pensioners proudly declared that the review has established Oyo State pensioners as the highest-paid in the nation.
In an interview with newsmen following the rally, Hon.Ige whose birthday is February 15, expressed his delight, stating, “I am not surprised that pensioners from all the 33 local governments in oyo State turned out in thousands to show gratitude to the Oyo State Government under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde.”
He further emphasised the governor’s unwavering support, adding that: “From the beginning of this administration, Governor Makinde has demonstrated love, loyalty, and commitment to the welfare of pensioners. Under his leadership, they have been receiving the utmost support.”
He noted that before the transformative period, many pensioners faced dire poverty and hardship, struggling to access their retirement benefits.
“Thank God we have a governor for the masses, one who truly cares.” He recognises that retirees, whether from state, federal, or local government, have served the state diligently and deserve respectful treatment.”
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“His administration has improved their welfare and provided special packages, which is why we see so many pensioners here today to express their gratitude,” Ige stated.
Describing the rally as unprecedented in the state’s history, he noted that the Seyi Makinde administration has not experienced protests or unrest from pensioners in the past six years, instead, they chose to organize a solidarity and gratitude rally, a remarkable turn of events for a group often associated with demanding their rights.
“This administration is committed to fulfilling its promises, and we will do everything possible to continue supporting our retirees. They can expect even greater dividends of democracy, as they have worked hard for the state and deserve to be treated with dignity,” Ige affirmed.
Reflecting on the rally’s significance, he remarked, “This is more than just a rally; it feels like a birthday gift for me, and I am truly grateful. Governor Makinde is a listening leader who pays close attention to the concerns of pensioners.”
Hon. Ige, however, urged prospective retirees in Oyo State to remain patient and cautious, saying that: “Do not fall prey to touts or scammers while processing your retirement benefits. Wait for official communication regarding your entitlements.”