Unpaid pension since 2013: Retired teachers in Akwa Ibom ready for hunger strike, protest

Retired primary school teachers in Akwa Ibom State have announced a date for commencement of hunger strike and massive protest following non-payment of pension arrears, 7.5 percent pension contribution as well as 2013 and 2014 leave grant.

The forum, in a communique issued at the end of its general meeting in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State Capital, announced December 10, 2024, as date for the hunger strike commencement and peaceful demonstration, urging all members to participate.

Next-of-kin of retirees who have died, or have become incapacitated, were also enjoined to participate.

The communique, signed by Rev Dr. Felix I. Cooley and Hon. Emmanuel S. Udoaka, Chairman and Secretary of the forum, warned that the “marginalized treatment” meted on them must no longer be condoned.

“There is no other group of retirees in the State owed unpaid pension from 2013 till date, especially 2015 retirees who are the only set who are not paid even one month for over ten years, 7.5% pension contribution and 2013/2014 leave grant,” they decried.

“All retirees and next-of-kin so affected will assemble at CKS Wellington Bassey Way End on 10th December, 2024, of all the issues are not settled before that date,” the forum directed.

They insisted that on the said date, “they will go out and die before His Excellency The Governor.”

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