Ekiti Governor approves N1bn for gratuity payments

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has approved the release of one billion naira as a gratuity to state pensioners.

It will be recalled that Oyebanji last month distributed N3.5 billion in gratuity cheques to retirees in the state as part of efforts to offset the backlog of outstanding gratuities.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Yinka Oyebode, stated in a statement released on Thursday that the governor also approved the payment of two months’ pension arrears to local government pensioners.

Oyebode stated, “Additionally, Governor Oyebanji also approved the payment of two months’ outstanding subvention to Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti, and one month’s outstanding subvention each to Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti; Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere Ekiti; and the College of Health Science and Technology, Ijero Ekiti.

“Also approved for release is one month’s outstanding subvention to the Judiciary.

“The payments are in fulfilment of the governor’s promise to prioritise the welfare and wellbeing of workers and retirees and ensure that all outstanding entitlements of workers and pensioners owed by previous administrations are paid to them in line with the continuity and shared prosperity agenda of the administration.”

Oyebode stated that the governor urged workers in the state “to remain focused on excellent service delivery,” as he assured them of his administration’s commitment to their welfare, as well as the payment of all their entitlements