Gov. Otti Moves to Clear 20-Year Gratuity Backlog: Hope Rises for Abia Pensioners

For the first time in decades, Abia pensioners have a renewed sense of hope as Governor Alex Otti announces concrete steps toward resolving a gratuity debt crisis that has lingered for more than 20 years. What previous administrations ignored or shifted aside, the present government now confronts head-on with transparency and determination.

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, made this known on Friday during the November edition of the Monthly Media Parley tagged “Governor Otti Speaks”, held at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, Umuahia.

Governor Otti revealed that the joint Committee comprising representatives of the National Body of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP) and members of his administration has submitted its full report on outstanding gratuities.

According to him, the review became necessary after fresh appeals from pensioners who have endured years of waiting.

“The Committee we set up between the NUP and members of the administration has just handed in their report. After the appeals from pensioners, we went back to reassess the issue — and that work has now been completed,” the Governor said.

The report shows that verified gratuity arrears owed pensioners since 2001 now exceed ₦60 billion — a figure Governor Otti described as “disheartening.” He lamented that many retirees have waited for over two decades without receiving what is rightfully theirs.

“It is disheartening that gratuities have remained outstanding since 2001. The total verified amount is in excess of ₦60 billion. These debts date back more than 20 years. Government is a continuum—whether assets or liabilities, you take them all. We are unafraid to work out a solution,” he stated.

Governor Otti disclosed that his administration will soon announce a structured plan to begin clearing the backlog, hinting strongly at a phased payment approach.

“One thing I want to assure our pensioners is that their gratuity will be paid gradually. From the way my mind is working, we will begin the payments step by step,” he added.

The Governor reaffirmed that his administration remains committed to prioritizing the welfare of workers and pensioners, noting that regular salaries are up to date.

Addressing other welfare concerns, he assured newly recruited teachers that the delay in their salary payments would be resolved before the end of the weekend. He also emphasized that ongoing recruitment processes for teachers and medical personnel will remain transparent, fair, and strictly merit-based.