From Maurice Okafor, Enugu
The Abia State government has restated its commitment to clear arrears of oension of its retired workers before the end of the year.
The Commissioner for Information and Culture, Mr Okey Kanu, made this known while briefing newsmen on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting, at the Government House, Umuahia.
Kanu said the decision was informed by the promises made by Gov. Alex Otti during his campaigns to improve the welfare of pensioners.
He said that a verification exercise was being conducted to ascertain genuine pensioners, adding that as soon as the exercise is completed payment would commence.
“Let me reiterate government’s position to clear all outstanding pensions once the verification exercise is done.
“It is a promise that was made during the campaigns and since this government came on board, it is a promise that will be kept.
“Before the end of the year, all outstanding pensions will be paid as soon as the verification exercise is concluded,” he said.
Kanu added that he was delighted with the efficient manner in which the verification exercise is being conducted.
He expressed optimism that the smooth operation of the verification exercise would lead to its timely completion by next week.
Kanu further said that the exercise had garnered widespread commendation throughout the state for its exceptional execution.
He said that the verification team visited elderly pensioners who could not travel in their homes, while those who were unable to attend in person were guided to utilise the Sub-Treasury and those residing far from the verification centers were provided with online codes to participate.
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