Federal retirees under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) have issued an ultimatum to the government, demanding the immediate release of 21 months’ worth of unpaid pensions. In a letter addressed to Wale Edun, the Coordinating Minister of Finance and National Economy, the pensioners expressed frustration over the non-payment of their accrued rights from March 2023 to November 2024.
The pensioners, who previously staged a peaceful protest at the Ministry of Finance on November 12, 2024, commended the minister for his measured response but lamented the lack of tangible action. Despite prior assurances, they noted that their pensions and long-overdue increments remained unsettled.
Among their demands are payments of:
- 15% pension increase from 2007,
- 33% pension increase from 2010,
- Adjustments following the 2019 minimum wage increase, and
- A 20–28% pension increase approved in 2024.
The retirees are also calling for the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency in the CPS sector and clear all liabilities by December 16, 2024.
The pensioners have vowed to take further action if their demands are ignored. “From 12 pm on December 16, 2024, all CPS retirees nationwide will occupy the Federal Ministry of Finance and the Office of the Accountant General in Abuja until the government addresses our concerns,” said the union’s leadership.
With support from members nationwide, the pensioners insist they will not back down until justice is served, urging the government to act swiftly to avoid further disruption.
