Retirees in Adamawa State have expressed growing frustration over the non-implementation of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s pledge to clear their long-standing pension arrears.
Three months ago, the governor announced plans to release N5 billion for state pensioners and N3 billion for local government retirees, a move that was widely welcomed as a relief for thousands battling financial hardship.
However, since the announcement, no details have been provided on the payment schedule or disbursement process.
The silence has left pensioners anxious and disheartened. Some of the affected retirees, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said they are struggling to survive under worsening economic conditions.
“We respect the governor because he has a record of keeping promises.
“That is why we are appealing to him to save our souls by fulfilling this pledge,” one retiree said.
Many of us have been waiting for this money for years. Sadly, some of our colleagues have died without receiving the fruits of their labour.”
According to the pensioners, arrears dating back to August 2015 remain unsettled.
They stressed that even partial payment would provide immediate relief and restore hope in their twilight years.
“Most of us are old, frail, and sick.
“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,” another retiree said.
Public affairs analyst Sali Abubakar warned that the government’s prolonged silence could fuel anger among retirees and their families.
He noted that whispers of disillusionment are already spreading within pensioners’ circles, with some doubting whether the funds will ever be released.
The delay comes at a time of rising inflation and soaring living costs across Nigeria, leaving vulnerable groups such as retirees in an increasingly precarious position.
For many of them, pensions remain their only source of survival, and without urgent intervention, they fear being pushed deeper into poverty and neglect.
