The Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) has called on its members across the country to obtain their Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVCs) ahead of the 2027 general elections, stressing that the ballot remains the most effective tool for holding leaders accountable.
The appeal was made by the union’s South-West Public Relations Officer, Olusegun Abatan, during a zonal meeting held in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, on Wednesday.
Abatan emphasized that pensioners and citizens must leverage their voting power to remove leaders who have failed to prioritize the welfare of the people, particularly retirees. He noted that the 2027 elections present an opportunity to elect leaders committed to integrity, accountability, and improved governance.
Highlighting the current economic challenges, the Oyo State NUP Secretary decried rising inflation, attributing it to increased energy costs, including petrol and diesel prices. According to him, the situation has significantly worsened the cost of living, leaving many Nigerians struggling to sustain their livelihoods.
He further noted that the hardship predates global tensions, including the conflict between Israel and Iran, but has been exacerbated by such developments. He criticized the government’s response, stating that unlike other countries implementing measures to cushion the effects of economic strain, Nigeria has yet to take meaningful steps to support its citizens.
The union also raised concerns over the non-payment of gratuities, revealing that some pensioners in the South-West are still owed entitlements dating back to 2011. Abatan described the situation as unacceptable, noting that delayed payments have lost significant value over time due to inflation.
“It is disheartening that funds owed for over a decade have not been settled, while affected pensioners continue to face hardship,” he said.
He urged voters to carefully assess the track records of both incumbent and aspiring leaders, particularly those seeking re-election, before casting their votes.
Also speaking at the meeting, the South-West Zonal Chairman of the NUP, Waidi Oloyede, identified the non-implementation of the 2019 Federal Government circular on consequential pension adjustments as a major issue affecting retirees. He called on relevant authorities to fulfill their commitments and address the longstanding concerns of pensioners.
The union reiterated its stance that active civic participation remains crucial in shaping a government that prioritizes the welfare of its citizens.
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