Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi; Chairman, State Pension Commission, Mr. Oluwole Ojo; and a beneficiary, Mrs. Eunice Komolafe, during the distribution of cheques to Pensioners by the Governor, in Ado-Ekiti... on Friday.
It was a moment of gratitude to God and the Dr. Kayode Fayemi-led administration in Ekiti State when some 279 pensioners were handed their gratuities by the State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi.
Presenting cheques totalling N501,605,815.84 to the 279 pensioners who had retired from the service of the State and local governments on Friday, the Governor said the payment is a demonstration of his administration’s commitment the welfare of pensioners and to ensure that they receive their benefits as and when due.
Dr. Fayemi explained that the delay in the payment of gratuity was not unconnected to the biometric data capture of all pensioners and workers on the payroll of the state government aimed at ensuring a pragmatic planning and personnel financial management in the State. He assured the pensioners of regular release of funds for the payment of all gratuities.
On the implementation of the 6 per cent and 15 per cent incremental rates for pension allowances, the Governor stated that government has approved these incremental rates but the dwindling finances faced by the state was responsible for failure to implement same.
“Be that it may, we are looking inward to raise fund for the implementation. I have directed the Ekiti State Pension Commission to determine all indebtedness to pensioners including those of the corporations and tertiary institutions. This is important so that we can have a holistic record of all monies owed pensioners to be able to plan the payment,” he said.
While restating that the Government has a pact with the people for the efficient delivery of good governance, Fayemi urged all and sundry to shun “all vices” and be willing to do their parts in ensuring that Ekiti State reclaims its place of pride in integrity and industry.
He added that the state would soon commence deductions into the Contributory Pension Fund and urged all eligible workers who have not yet registered to do so as soon as possible.
The Governor commended the management of the Ekiti State Pension Commission for effective pension administration in the state; saying that the administration has consolidated all pension offices under the aegis of Ekiti State Pension Commission.
Fayemi who congratulated the beneficiaries stressed that the money is a reward for their toil and service to the State and it “is your right to demand it” and it is his duty to pay.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the State Pension Commission, Mr Oluwole Ojo commended the State Governor for the payment of the gratuity, saying that his administration’s care for the elderly is not only reflected in the social security scheme but also in the payment of pension and gratuity despite the meagre resources of the state government
Ojo who said that pension administration has worn a new status in the state stated that the new drive is aimed at ensuring that those who have served in the public service get their benefits in a short time and without stress.
Last modified: September 16, 2012