1996: Ebonyi Government Begins Gratuity Payments for LG Retirees

Ebonyi State Government has commenced the process of paying gratuities to retired local government workers from 1996 to date.

Governor Nwifuru, in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Monday Uzor, announced the inauguration of a six-member committee tasked with the verification and payment of genuine retirees. The committee is said to be chaired by Mrs. Catherine Ogbu, with Mrs. Mbam Joy, Dr. Cajethan Oketa, Hon. Justice Iheanachor Chima, and Comrade David Elom, who represents the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), serving as members, while, Mr. Martins Uguru will serve as the Secretary. Governor Nwifuru urged the committee to carry out its assignment with transparency and integrity, stressing that the welfare of those who served the state at the grassroots should be prioritized. “I have confidence in the calibre of persons selected to do this assignment,” the governor said. “I want everyone who had the opportunity to serve this state at the local government level to receive their full entitlements. We are embarking on this not because we have enough, but just as I told the local government chairmen, this payment is as important as physical projects.” He further directed the committee to ensure that each retiree is paid the same day they are verified and confirmed. “Use available documents as guides, and ensure every retiree receives an alert immediately after verification,” he instructed. Governor Nwifuru also commended the Local Government Council Chairmen for recognizing the importance of the exercise and supporting its implementation.