The Coalition of Federal Pensioners of Nigeria has issued a stern warning to the Federal Government, threatening a nationwide protest on November 24 if the outstanding pension increment arrears and palliative allowances are not paid by November 23.
At a press briefing held in Lagos on Tuesday, the Coalition’s National Chairman, Mukaila Ogunbote, expressed deep frustration over the government’s continued delay in fulfilling its promises to retired workers.
He disclosed that the ₦32,000 pension increment arrears and the ₦25,000 palliative allowance—both approved since 2023—remain unpaid despite repeated assurances.
“We were told that our arrears would be paid within two weeks of approval, yet nothing has been done,” Ogunbote said. “If by November 23 we don’t receive our payments, all pensioners across Nigeria will embark on a naked protest on November 24.”
Protest May Go Global
Ogunbote, who also serves as Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NIPOST Chapter), revealed that pensioners in the diaspora have pledged to join the protest from their respective countries, turning the demonstration into a global solidarity movement for Nigerian retirees.
He appealed directly to President Bola Tinubu to intervene and compel the Minister of Finance and the Accountant-General of the Federation to release the funds urgently.
“Too many pensioners have died due to hardship and lack of access to food or proper healthcare,” he lamented. “We are not asking for luxury—just what has already been approved for us.”
Government Accused of Neglecting Pensioners
The Coalition criticised the Federal Government for promptly paying active workers a ₦35,000 palliative allowance while leaving pensioners without their ₦25,000 support package.
Ogunbote described the situation as unjust, pointing out that pensioners—many of whom are elderly and ailing—are the most vulnerable group.
“Workers received their ₦35,000 in one month, yet we are still waiting for ₦25,000. Pensioners deserve equal consideration,” he said.
He also expressed disappointment at the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), accusing the body of failing to show enough solidarity with retired workers. Ogunbote urged stronger unity between labour unions and pension groups to address what he called “systemic neglect of those who served the nation faithfully.”
Plea for Payment Before Christmas
Other leaders of the Coalition, including Francis Oluwo, President of the Civil Service Pensioners, echoed Ogunbote’s call, urging the government to settle the arrears before Christmas so retirees can celebrate the festive season “with dignity.”
Oluwo accused officials close to the president of failing to implement his directives, while Bridget Obieto, Assistant Secretary of the Voice of Nigeria Pensioners Association, made an emotional plea to both President Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu to intervene.
“We gave this nation our youth and strength. Now in our old age, we should not be abandoned,” Obieto said.
Pensioners Mobilise Nationwide
Elijah Akindutire, Chairman Emeritus of the NIPOST Pensioners’ Chapter, encouraged retirees nationwide to participate fully in the planned protest, vowing that pensioners will not back down until their demands are met.
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“This time, we are determined to make our voices heard,” Akindutire declared.
As the November 23 deadline approaches, the Coalition of Federal Pensioners remains hopeful that the Federal Government will act swiftly to avert the nationwide—and possibly global—demonstration.
But their message is clear: if promises remain unfulfilled, Nigeria’s pensioners will take to the streets on November 24.
