Encomia as Governor Uzodimma Resumes Payment of Gratuities From Today

By Ambrose Nwaogwugwu, November 26, 2024.

In a landmark decision made at Government House, Owerri, last night, Governor Hope Uzodimma has approved the resumption of gratuity payments to retirees while approving the implementation of a new minimum wage for the State workers. This bold move, effective today, Tuesday, November 26, 2024, underscores the Governor’s commitment to improving the welfare of workers and pensioners alike.

Addressing the backlog of gratuities that has remained unpaid since 2006, the #PeoplesGovernor revealed that 4,529 retirees at the Local Government level and 6,427 retirees at the State level were owed their entitlements. To alleviate this long-standing burden, the Governor’s administration is commencing immediate payments to 2,962 retirees at the Local Government level and 2,742 retirees at the State level.

The Governor further reassured retirees that the remaining balance—1,567 Local Government retirees and 2,685 State retirees—will be settled in the next one or two batches. This phased approach ensures that every affected retiree will soon receive their due entitlements.

Imolites have been quick to commend this move as a breath of fresh air in governance. Mrs. Chinwe Nwankwo, a retired teacher from Ehime Mbano, described the decision as “a beacon of hope for pensioners who had almost given up on receiving their hard-earned gratuities.” Mr. Ikechukwu Amadi, a civil servant, praised the Governor for fulfilling his promise, stating, “This is a demonstration of true leadership and a government that listens to its people.” Similarly, Chief Chike Amanze, a community leader from Aboh Mbaise, lauded the administration’s ability to prioritize the needs of retirees while implementing the new minimum wage, calling it “a giant stride that reflects empathy and accountability.”

By addressing an issue that has lingered for nearly two decades, Governor Uzodimma has brought relief to thousands of families, reaffirming his government’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and compassion. As payments begin, retirees and their families have expressed gratitude for the Governor’s decisive action, which continues to set a high standard for governance in Imo State.