Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Christian Appolos
Published on 2024-03-03 18:39:51
Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS) pensioners under the national umbrella body, the Federal Parastatals and Private Sector Pensioners Association of Nigeria (FEPPPAN), are urging President Bola Tinubu to allow the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD) to continue its operations. The pensioners believe that PTAD plays a crucial role in overseeing pension issues for all DBS pensioners, and its existence is essential to prevent corruption, mistreatment of pensioners, and untimely deaths.
FEPPPAN highlights the positive impact of PTAD on DBS pension management in Nigeria. They state that before the establishment of PTAD, pensioners were mistreated, lost members, and had their pensions fraudulently taken by government officials. The union emphasizes that they do not want to return to that era and are pleading with President Tinubu to spare PTAD to ensure the well-being of pensioners.
In a statement jointly signed by its Acting President-General and General Secretary, Alhaji Babaji Magaji, and Franklin O. Erinle, FEPPPAN expresses concern that scrapping PTAD would have disastrous consequences for pensioners. They highlight the trauma experienced by pensioners upon hearing the news of PTAD’s possible closure and stress the importance of the agency in prolonging and improving the lives of retirees.
FEPPPAN describes the situation faced by pensioners before PTAD as “man’s inhumanity to man,” characterized by harsh treatment, irregular payments, and corruption. They commend PTAD for its seamless verification process, online services, and prompt payment of pensions, which have greatly benefited pensioners and improved their quality of life.
The union emphasizes the importance of PTAD’s singular focus on pension issues, which has led to significant improvements in the lives of DBS pensioners. They urge President Tinubu to consider the well-being of pensioners and allow them to continue living under a system that has proven to be effective and supportive.
FEPPPAN makes a heartfelt plea to President Tinubu to view DBS pensioners as terminally ill individuals who require specialized care and attention. They stress the importance of supporting PTAD to ensure regular and timely payment of pensions, rather than exposing pensioners to a new system that may worsen their situation.
In conclusion, FEPPPAN urges President Tinubu to reconsider the decision to scrap PTAD and instead continue supporting the agency in its vital role of caring for DBS pensioners. They emphasize that the adverse effects of dismantling PTAD would be detrimental to pensioners and could lead to a worsening of their already challenging circumstances. The union calls on the President to prioritize the well-being of pensioners and ensure that PTAD continues to provide essential services to retirees.
Read the original article on Nigerian Tribune
