Lagos Pensioners Threaten Protests Over Unpaid Pensions and Poor Welfare

LAGOS, Nigeria – The Nigerian Union of Pensioners, NUP, Lagos State chapter, has expressed its frustration over the state’s non-payment of pensions, lack of welfare, and negligence towards its members.

The union has threatened to protest if their demands aren’t met.

In a press conference on Saturday, August 19, 2023, organized to voice out their grievances, the union decried the apparent apathy of the state government towards the pensioners, terming it the “you’ve retired go-and-die” attitude.

Rev. Oluremi Johnson, chairman of the NUP in Lagos, highlighted the union’s failed attempts to communicate with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

According to Johnson, they have faced repeated government officials obstructing them from meeting with the governor.

“For over two years, we have felt left in the dark,” Johnson lamented. He further warned: “If our demands aren’t addressed in the next two weeks, we will take to the streets in protest.”

Rev. Johnson commended the governor on his previous records but pointed out the possible interference in communication.

“We believe our letters have not reached you due to overzealous government officials, leading to delays in addressing our concerns,” he noted.

The NUP has a list of demands which include:

1. Constitutional Compliance: Adherence to Sections 173 (3) and 210 (3) of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution, which mandate pension increases every five years or when worker salaries are increased.
2. Consequential Adjustment: The union demands an adjustment to their pensions in line with the adjustments made to workers’ salaries in 2019.
3. Minimum Pension: Introduction of a minimum pension of N50,000 for all pensioners. Rev. Johnson highlighted that some pensioners receive a paltry sum of N1,800 monthly.
4. Arrears: Immediate payment of all pending gratuities and pension arrears.
5. Recognition: Acknowledgment of NUP members similar to members of other recognized unions in Lagos State.
6. Resources: Provision of utility vehicles and office spaces, as given to other unions.

The impending protests and these articulated demands underline a growing concern among the pensioners in Lagos State.

The situation presents another challenge for Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration, as it must navigate this sensitive issue while balancing the state’s fiscal constraints.