The House of Representatives has demanded the urgent release and payment of all approved pension increment and withheld palliatives by the Federal Government. This came after a motion raised by Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka on the non-payment of the N32,000 pension increase and the N25,000 wage award palliative that was approved in 2023.
Isiaka reminded the lawmakers that the former President approved both palliative and pension increases for federal pensioners as part of economic relief measures. He noted that despite the announcement, implementation remains pending. The House therefore called on the Ministry of Finance to take immediate action and ensure that pensioners are not left to suffer.
House Calls Out Ministry Over Unpaid Federal Palliatives
While debating the motion, members of the House stressed that pensioners are among the most vulnerable citizens and should not be abandoned after years of service to the country. They argued that the delay in implementing approved increments has led to untold hardship, especially in the face of economic difficulties.
“The hardship pensioners are facing is heartbreaking,” a lawmaker noted during the session. “It is unacceptable that government makes promises to citizens and fails to honour them when it matters most.”
The lawmakers unanimously resolved that the Ministry of Finance must account for the delay and ensure the immediate disbursement of all financial benefits due to pensioners. They insisted that the economic situation of the country cannot continue to be used as an excuse to withhold approved entitlements.
Lawmakers Push for Accountability and Urgency
In addition to pension-related concerns, the House also tackled other pressing national issues. Hon. Afam Ogene moved a separate motion calling for a thorough investigation into the process of issuing driver’s licenses in the past three years. The House wants clarity on which agency is legally responsible for designing, producing, and distributing the licenses. This motion, according to the House, is necessary to plug financial leakages and ensure accountability in public service delivery.
Furthermore, Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi raised an alarm over what he described as a looming health crisis in the Federal Capital Territory. He urged the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency in the healthcare system and immediately release funds for the recruitment of health workers, upgrading of medical facilities, and purchase of critical equipment.
“The hospitals in the FCT are overstretched and underfunded,” Ezechi warned. “The population has increased, but the health infrastructure has remained stagnant.”
Reps Demand Immediate Payment of Pension Increment and Withheld Palliatives
The House of Representatives is demanding the immediate payment of pension increment and withheld palliatives to federal pensioners. The lawmakers believe that timely action will restore confidence in government processes and reduce the suffering of citizens who depend on these funds for survival. They insist that implementation delays must end, and responsible agencies must be held accountable for every financial obligation owed to the people.
