The President of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) Mr. Godwin Abumisi expressed deep concern over the removal of fuel subsidy, stating that it has inflicted pain, frustration, and hardship on pensioners across the country.
Abumisi said this at the opening of the National Executive Council, NEC, meeting of the union, in Akure.
However, he urged the Federal Government not to go back on its promise and to ensure that pensioners are included in the N25,000 cash award aimed at easing the economic hardship resulting from the removal of the petrol subsidy.
The NUP boss, in his remarks, said: “The Pensioners’ Day this year was celebrated on October 5, 2023, in line with the declaration of the day as the Older Persons’ Day by the Federal Government.
“We addressed a world press conference and demanded the inclusion of pensioners in the N25,000 cash award announced by the Federal Government.
“After this, we met with the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Dr Betta Edu and we hope that the list submitted will be treated with the needed zeal.
“Without mincing words, the subsidy removal has brought with it pains, frustration, and hardship to average Nigerians, including the pensioners.
“In the light of this, we wish to use this occasion to passionately appeal to the federal, state, and local governments to do something fast to assuage the pains of our members and other vulnerable Nigerians.”
Johnson Osunyemi, the Chairman of the union in Ondo State, pledged support to the national body, committing to uphold the union’s spirit and constitution in all endeavors.
Kanyi Daily recalls that the Federal Government had offered reassurance that the recent removal of fuel subsidy, which had caused discomfort for many citizens, would be a temporary hardship.
