Governor Alex Otti’s administration has restated its commitment to clear all pension arrears of its retired workers before the end of the year.

Information commissioner Okey Kanu said this on Monday while briefing journalists on the State Executive Council meeting outcome at the Government House, Umuahia.

Mr Kanu said the decision was informed by the promise made by Mr Otti during his campaign to improve the welfare of pensioners. He said a verification exercise was being conducted to ascertain genuine pensioners, adding that payment would commence as soon as the exercise was completed.

“Let me reiterate the government’s position to pay off 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,” stated the commissioner.

Mr Kanu added, “Before the end of the year, all outstanding pensions will be paid as soon as the verification exercise is concluded.”

Mr Kanu said he was delighted with the efficiency of the verification exercise. He expressed optimism that the smooth operation of the verification exercise would lead to its timely completion by next week.

The information commissioner further said the exercise had garnered widespread commendation throughout the state for its exceptional execution.

He said the verification team visited elderly pensioners who could not travel in their homes. At the same time, those who were unable to attend in person were guided to utilise the sub-treasury. Those far from the verification centres were provided online codes to participate.

Mr Kanu added that pensioners in the state were delighted with the unprecedented care shown during the process.

(NAN)