Pensioners celebrate PDP’s defeat in Abia governorship election
Pensioners under the aegis of Concerned Abia State Pensioners staged a city-wide jubilation in Umuahia, the state capital, to celebrate the defeat of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the governorship election.
They described the failure of PDP during the governorship and National Assembly elections in the state as God’s special way of rewarding the umbrella party for allegedly subjecting pensioners in Abia to sorrow.
Allegations of mistreatment
The retirees, dressed in all-white apparel during their celebration march in the streets of Umuahia, said the victory of Dr. Alex Otti on March 18 was an answered prayer from God.
They alleged that the outgoing government of Governor Okezie Ikpeazu treated them like slaves by owing more than 30 months of pensions.
They accused the PDP-led governments of refusing to pay them gratuities for more than 20 years, adding that many retirees have either died of hunger, sickness, distress or have been forced to relocate to villages by the landlords they owed.
Half payments and accusations
Apart from these, the pensioners alleged that the few months of pensions they received came in halves even when the state government announced to the world on the radio that they were paid in full.
They labeled former and present commissioners for finance in the state from 2015 to date as total failures.
Celebrations
Some of the pensioners, Chief Benson Uwaka, Mrs Obiageri Ahuoma, and Elder James Igbokwe, said their prayers were answered by God through the victory of the Labour Party.
Clanging bells and dancing, the retirees moved from Bende road to NUJ press centre/Abia tower junction and Isi gate junction before heading to Okpara square, all in a celebration mood.
Gratitude and prayers
They sang Taa bu ubochi onu Hallelujah(Today is a day of joy Hallelujah), PDP laa nke oma Labour Party nnoo (PDP goodbye, Labour Party welcome).
The pensioners thanked Governor-elect Dr. Alex Otti for promising to clear their unpaid pensions, praying to God to bless and protect the former banker.
Pensioners and political change
This event highlights the importance of political change for vulnerable groups such as pensioners.
Pensioners are among the most vulnerable in society, and it is essential to ensure that they receive their entitlements in a timely and efficient manner.
Failure to pay pensions can result in distress, sickness, hunger, and even death, as seen in the allegations made by the retirees.
The celebratory march by the pensioners underscores the role of democracy in responding to the needs and concerns of the people.
It is crucial to ensure that politicians and elected officials prioritize the welfare of vulnerable groups such as pensioners to promote social justice and equity.