The Coalition of Federal Pensioners of Nigeria has warned of a nationwide na.ked protest on November 24 if the government fails to pay their outstanding pension increment arrears and palliative allowances
National Chairman Mukaila Ogunbote made the announcement during a news conference in Lagos on Tuesday. Ogunbote, who also leads the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NIPOST Chapter), said the protest would go ahead if the Federal Government does not fulfill its commitment to pay the approved N32,000 pension increment arrears and N25,000 palliative allowance dating back to 2023.
He added that pensioners living abroad have expressed solidarity with their counterparts in Nigeria and will join the demonstration from their respective countries, turning it into a global protest.
Ogunbote appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene and direct the Minister of Finance and the Accountant-General of the Federation to release the funds. He emphasized the hardship faced by retirees, noting that many have died or are struggling due to lack of proper nutrition and access to medical care.
“We were told that our arrears would be paid within two weeks of approval, but nothing has been done. If by November 23 we do not receive payment, all pensioners nationwide will embark on a naked protest on November 24,” he said.
Ogunbote also pointed out the disparity between workers and pensioners, saying, “Workers received the N35,000 palliative within a month, but pensioners are yet to receive the N25,000 approved for us. We are more vulnerable than anyone else. We are appealing to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene.”
He urged the government to pay the owed funds before December to allow pensioners to prepare for Christmas. Ogunbote also criticized the Nigeria Labour Congress for not actively supporting pensioners in their demand and called for unity among workers to address government neglect.
Francis Oluwo, President of the Civil Service Pensioners, accused officials close to President Tinubu of failing to implement instructions and stressed that many retirees live in poor conditions and can barely afford food or medication. He said the naked protest was necessary to compel the government to act.
Bridget Obieto, Assistant Secretary of the Voice of Nigeria Pensioners Association, called on the NLC to use its influence to ensure pensioners receive their dues. She appealed to the President and First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, to prioritize retirees’ welfare so they could celebrate the festive season with dignity.
Elijah Akindutire, Chairman Emeritus of NIPOST Pensioners, also urged the government to release the arrears, stressing that pensioners need the funds to meet basic needs. He called for a strong turnout at the November 24 protest to show the determination of retirees.
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