Osun Local Government Pensioners: We’re Owed One Year of Pension Arrears

Retirees from Local Government Councils in Osun State have raised a strong alarm over unpaid pension benefits. They explained that the state still owes them one full year of pension, and this delay has pushed many of them into hardship.

Retirees Demand Immediate Payment

Lanre Fadahunsi, the Coordinator of the Forum of Local Government Retirees, spoke to journalists in Osogbo. He demanded that the state release all outstanding payments without further delay. He explained that many retired workers now struggle to feed, buy medication, or handle basic needs because their pensions have not been paid.

Allegations of Deliberate Delay

Fadahunsi also accused the consultants and banks managing the disbursement process of slowing down the payments intentionally. Although he dismissed attempts by outsiders to politicize the issue, he stressed that retirees can no longer remain silent. He said, “Our people are dying. We need the government to reveal the true financial state of local governments, in line with the Freedom of Information Bill.”

Unequal Payment Among Pensioners

He noted another concern. While some categories of pensioners receive their money on time, local government retirees often get nothing. This inconsistency, according to him, adds more pressure to people who depend entirely on their monthly pensions for survival.

He emphasized that pensions keep retirees alive and should never face deductions or delays. Because of this, he urged the government to prioritize prompt payment.

The Joint Account Dispute

Fadahunsi further explained that the funds used to pay state pensioners originally belong to the local governments. Yet the Joint Account system blocks the retirees from accessing the money meant for them. As a result, their situation continues to worsen.

He ended by calling on the state government to take urgent action. He said retirees deserve respect, fairness, and immediate relief after serving the state for decades.