Otti Announces Phased Settlement of 20 Years Pension, Gratuity Backlog 

The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, has confirmed that his administration will commence a gradual settlement of outstanding pension and gratuity obligations owed to retired civil servants extending as far back as 2001. The governor said the move is part of his broader commitment to redressing long-standing financial injustices suffered by pensioners who have endured years of delayed benefits.

Speaking during a media briefing in Umuahia, Otti explained that his team has concluded a thorough auditing exercise to determine accurate pension liabilities and identify verified beneficiaries. He emphasized that the payments will be implemented in phases to ensure responsible financial management while safeguarding funds for ongoing government operations and development projects.

According to officials within the administration, the total backlog runs into tens of billions of naira, representing nearly two decades of accumulated arrears left by successive governments. Otti acknowledged that the magnitude of the debt is substantial but stressed that ignoring the issue is not an option.

He affirmed that pensioners who completed their verification process will be prioritized in the disbursement sequence.

The governor also reassured present state employees that regular salaries remain fully covered and that no active worker will be neglected during the pension settlement process.

He noted that reforms are underway to strengthen the state’s payroll system, enhance pension administration transparency, and prevent future arrears from resurfacing.

Retiree associations have cautiously welcomed the announcement, describing it as long overdue. Many pensioners have expressed relief that their plight is finally being recognized by a government willing to act rather than make rhetorical promises.

Some have urged the administration to provide a publicly accessible payment schedule to foster transparency and reduce speculation.

Analysts have largely applauded the phased payment strategy, describing it as a calculated and financially prudent approach that balances compassion with fiscal responsibility.

However, they also warn that the state must maintain consistent communication with pensioners to avoid suspicion or frustration if delays in individual payouts occur.

As Abia embarks on this long-awaited process of financial reconciliation, the outcome holds significant implications not only for retired workers but also for public trust in government, governance accountability, and the broader socioeconomic stability of the state.