The Ondo State Pension Transitional Department has announced the commencement of a statewide verification exercise for pensioners from 2016 to 2025.

A statement by the permanent secretary of the department, Bunmi Alade, on Friday in Akure, said the exercise was designed to ensure accurate pension records and eliminate ghost pensioners.

Mr Alade added that the exercise was intended to guarantee prompt and seamless payment of pensions and gratuities to all eligible beneficiaries.

He said that all affected pensioners were expected to present themselves at the designated verification centres with the necessary documents.

“The affected pensioners are to come with the following documents: letter of approval of retirement, payment voucher, Bank Verification Number (BVN), and pensioner’s identity card (or any valid means of identification).

“For deceased pensioners’ next-of-kin or representatives, they are also required to provide Letter of Administration and Affidavit of Next-of-Kin,” he said.

The permanent secretary explained that the exercise would hold on Sept. 2 and Sept. 3 for pensioners in Ilaje, Okitipupa, Irele, Ese-Odo, and Odigbo Local Government Areas.

“Also, on Sept. 4 and Sept. 5, pensioners from these Local Government Areas: Ondo West, Ondo East, and Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo will do their verification.

“While on Sept. 8 and Sept. 9, pensioners from these Local Government Areas: Akoko North-East, Akoko North-West, Akoko South-East, and Akoko South-West will do theirs.

“Those in Owo and Ose Local Government Areas will do their verification on Sept. 10 and Sept. 11, while pensioners in Ifedore and Idanre will be verified on Sept. 12.

“Lastly, pensioners in Akure North and Akure South will do their verification on Sept. 15 and Sept. 16,” he stated.

Mr Alade said that the exercise would take place at the headquarters of each local government or any other venue agreed upon by the local branch of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP).

He asked the pensioners to attend the exercise in person, stating that proxies would not be permitted.

Mr Alade said that the state government reassured all senior citizens of its unwavering commitment to their welfare and well-being.