Ebonyi Pays Gratuities to over 4,000 Retired LGA Workers After 29 Years
Retired local government council staff of Ebonyi State
By Nabob Ogbonna, Abakaliki
The Ebonyi State Government has commenced the payment of gratuities to over 4,000 retired local government workers across the state’s 13 local government areas, marking the first such payment in 29 years.
This initiative follows the release of ₦10 billion by Governor Francis Nwifuru to offset outstanding gratuities dating back to 1996, the year the state was created.
The flag-off ceremony, held yesterday at the Old Government House in Abakaliki, began with retired workers from Abakaliki Local Government Area.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Barr. Ikeuwa Omebeh, stated that the allocated funds would cover both deceased and living retirees. He described the exercise as a historic milestone and reaffirmed the governor’s commitment to his administration’s “People’s Charter of Needs,” as outlined in its manifesto.
“For almost 30 years, these gratuities remained unpaid, but Governor Nwifuru has turned promises into action,” “This is governance anchored on compassion, integrity, and justice. It is fully in line with the governor’s ‘People’s Charter of Needs’.”
“This payment is also part of the administration’s resolve to reward honesty and restore dignity to those who dedicated their lives to public service.”Omebeh said.
Omebeh added that the committee, led by Mrs. Catherine Ogbu, had completed its verification exercise and disbursements would be made in phases, local government by local government, through November—culminating with retirees from Onicha LGA.
“Each verified retiree will receive their gratuity directly into their bank account immediately after their verification is completed,” he stated.
It will be recalled that on August 1, 2025, Governor Nwifuru inaugurated a six-member verification committee chaired by Mrs. Ogbu. The committee was tasked with authenticating claims and determining eligibility for all retired local government workers between 1996 and 2025.
Reacting on behalf of the beneficiaries, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (Ebonyi State Council), High Chief Donatus Okemini, expressed deep gratitude to the governor for bringing an end to decades of neglect.
“Governor Nwifuru has wiped away our tears, frustration, and years of uncertainty. For the first time in many years, we can finally smile again,” Okemini said.
