Some pensioners in Edo State have pledged to mobilise votes for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, following Governor Monday Okpebholo’s approval of their return to the Defined Benefits Scheme (DBS) from the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

The pensioners made the pledge on Wednesday during a thank-you and solidarity visit to the Government House, Benin.

Chairman, Association of Retirees, under the Contributory Pension Scheme, Asemota Osagie, said the governor’s decision had addressed the concerns of retirees, who had suffered under the implementation of the CPS.

Mr Osagie, who said he retired after 35 years of service, described the governor’s intervention as evidence of a government willing to listen to the plight of pensioners.

He pledged that the association would mobilise support for Messrs Okpebholo and Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.

On his part, the Secretary of the association, Felix Aikpitanyi, said the governor’s intervention deserved more than verbal appreciation, pledging that the pensioners would translate their gratitude into votes in 2027.

Responding, Mr Okpebholo said his administration remained committed to developing Edo State and improving the welfare of its people.

He stated, “I was voted for because of the plight of Edo people, and I am in office to solve the challenges facing them. You voted for me to develop Edo State, and that is exactly what I am doing. Anything that will not benefit Edo people, I will not do it.”

The governor described Mr Tinubu as a father who cared about the welfare of Edo State residents, adding that the president’s support contributed to his administration’s achievements. 

(NAN)