As part of efforts to alleviate hardship and improve the well-being of retirees in the state, the Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has approved N2.5 billion for the bulk payment of gratuity arrears for local government retirees and primary school teachers.

This 4th tranche, covering those who retired in 2013, will be disbursed at the Cocoa Conference Hall of the Governor’s Office on Friday, 14th February 2025.

Mr Oladele Adesanmi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, who made this disclosure, recalled that the Aiyedatiwa-led administration inherited a backlog of gratuity arrears, out of which three tranches, covering 2009 to 2012, had already been paid in full.

A statement by the Head, Media and Publicity Unit, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Abooluwa Famakinwa, said the Permanent Secretary further explained that N2.5 billion has been set aside to settle a significant portion of these outstanding payments for both living and deceased retirees.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to implementing more meaningful and impactful programmes aimed at improving the lives of the people.

It will be recalled that the Governor last year July the flag-off of the second batch of bulk payments of outstanding gratuities to local government retirees

The Governor recalled previous payments made under his administration, noting the substantial relief provided to many retirees, adding that such regular payments will continue.

Governor Aiyedatiwa said: “Today is another landmark in our avowed commitment to the welfare of our people, including workers in Service and at retirement in the Sunshine State.

“In November 2023, the First Batch of this innovative bulk payment of outstanding gratuity of our former Local Government Staff and primary school teachers was carried out. In January 2024, another flag-off of payment of one billion and two hundred million naira (N1.2b) was also performed for the year 2014 pensioners of the State Civil Service.”

The Governor said the current batch focuses predominantly on LG retirees from the year 2012 and aims to settle remaining arrears from previous years, reiterating his administration’s dedication to the consistent and fair payment of pensions and gratuities.

The Governor also addressed concerns about the fairness of the payment process, assuring that the system in place prioritizes equity, fairness, and transparency.

He urged those who were not included in this batch to remain hopeful as the administration continues its efforts to maximize the happiness and welfare of the greatest number of people.