The reelection bid of the Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, on Tuesday gathered traction, as members of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners(NUP) endorsed the governor for second term to continue with his lofty programmes targeted at disentangling the citizens from poverty and neglect.
The retirees predicated their action on Oyebanji’s impressive performance, promise keeping spirit, inclusive governance, and regular payments of all thwir statutory entitlements, including pensions and gratuities.
The Governor was represented at the event, held at the NUP Secretariat, Oke Ori, in Ado Ekiti, by his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, and was graced by NUP top echelons, including members of the highest decision making body: State Executive Council.
Rationalizing the endorsement, the NUP Chairman, Ekiti chapter, Com Tope Popoola, said Governor Oyebanji made history in Nigeria, by appointing the first Special Adviser on Pension Matters, making Ekiti to be pioneer in this stead.
With the chanting of a thunderous “yes” when he posed the endorsement votes to members, Popoola applauded the governor for placing premium on the welfare of his members, thereby reversing high morbidity and mortality rates within their ranks.
“This endorsement is total. All members collectively agreed to endorse the best Governor in Nigeria, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, because he initiated regular payments of monthly pension, gradual liquidation of the inherited gratuities, payment of pension arrears and payment of N10,000 palliatives fund to our members.
“The governor’s personal donation of a sum of N15m towards our guest house project, appointment of Advisor on pension Matters, which is the first of its kind in Nigeria, are areas where our lives have been touched directly by this governor. We are happy that you made promises and fulfilled them.
“While thanking you for all that you have been doing for the pensioners to enhance our welfare, we have come with one voice to adopt you and reciprocate your giant strides with unflinching support during the next elections”.
Also buttressing the position canvassed by the Chairman, the NUP National Vice President, Com. Ayo Kumapayi, commended Oyebanji for restoring the respect and dignity of pensioners in the state, and make them credit worthy to be able to participate in the economic activities.
“I could remember a time in this state, our members were so poor that we became subjects of ridicule in the market. But today, Oyebanji has reversed this trend and restored our respect and dignity. We now go to market and buy whatever we need. God bless our governor”, he said .
Describing the endorsement as a catalyst for him to further rev up the pedal of development, Oyebanji, saluted the pensioners for their unflinching support, saying their full backing further lent credence to the fact that his government hasn’t disappointed the populace.
Oyebanji added that the retirees had devoted their productive years serving Ekiti State, and that it was just fair and human, that the government prioritises their needs, to bolster their means of livelihoods.
“I wish to assure you that the interest of our senior citizens and indeed the people of Ekiti State is paramount to us and he would not relent in the good works we have commenced. We are committed to addressing the challenges being faced by our senior citizens.
“We understand the importance of timely payment of pensions, gratuities and access to quality healthcare to enhance your quality of life. These are actions that reflect our vision for a society that values and uplifts its elders.
“Your wellbeing is not just a matter of obligation, it is a priority that aligns with our vision of inclusive governance and commitment to shared prosperity. We shall continue to pursue this within available resources”.