Adamawa retirees lament Gov Fintiri’s ‘failed’ N8bn pension promise

Adamawa retirees have cried out in frustration over the non-implementation of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s pledge to clear their pension arrears within three months.

The governor, about three months ago, announced that his administration would release ₦5 billion for state pensioners and ₦3 billion for local government retirees to ease their financial burden.

But since the announcement, nothing has been heard from the government regarding the payment schedule.

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This non-release of the money has sparked anxiety and worries among pensioners, who say they are already suffering severe emotional and economic hardships.

One of the affected retirees, who spoke on condition of anonymity, appealed directly to Governor Fintiri to come to their aid.

He stressed that many of them are living in dire conditions, struggling to meet daily needs such as food, rent, and healthcare.

“We respect the governor because he has a record of keeping promises, but I don’t know why this one is different.”

“That is why we are appealing to him to save our souls by fulfilling this pledge. Many of us have been waiting for this money for years. Some have already died without eating from the fruits of their labour.”

The pensioners said the state government has an outstanding backlog of unpaid pensions dating back to August 2015.

They argued that clearing even part of the debt would give them a fresh sense of relief and restore hope in their twilight years.

A number of retirees noted that the governor’s intervention, when fulfilled, would not only provide immediate financial relief but also reaffirm the government’s commitment to their welfare.

“Most of us are old, frail, and sick. Paying us what is due will give us a new lease of life. We are not asking for charity but for our rights. We worked for the state and local governments, and now we deserve to reap the benefits of our labour.”

A public affairs analyst, Sali Abubakar, warned that the government’s silence since the announcement risks breeding anger among retirees and their families.

Already, whispers of disillusionment are spreading within pensioners’ circles, with some expressing doubts about whether the funds will ever be released.

The delay comes at a time when inflation and rising costs of living have worsened the plight of vulnerable groups across Nigeria.

For many retirees, pensions remain their only means of survival. Without timely intervention, they fear being pushed further into poverty and neglect.“