Harmonised Pension: Gov Umo Eno Assures Retired Permanent Secretaries

... We'll Withdraw Case from Court - Group Leader pledges

Tony Udoh

In keeping to his promise of  supporting the elderly as well as attending to the welfare of serving and retired government workers, Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno has set up modalities to settle the lingering issue of harmonised pension for Pioneer Retired Permanent Secretaries in the State.

Speaking at a meeting with the Forum of Retired Permanent Secretaries at the Government House, Uyo, he noted that the entitlements of workers at all levels will be given adequate attention.

The Governor who showed deep compassion on the plight of the elder statesmen, appealed to them to exercise more patience to enable government work out a sustainable plan of resolving the issue.

Governor Eno maintained that those who have worked deserve their benefits and assured them that the issue of pension and gratuities will be given deserving attention, within the resources available.

He then constituted a  3-Member Committee  comprising the Secretary to the State Government, Head of Service, and the Permanent Secretary, in the office of the HoS to liaise with the forum for a workable document that will resolve the issue amicably.

Earlier in his remarks, the leader of the group, Chief J.J. Obot appreciated the Governor for his prompt intervention, adding that though Pastor Eno had during the governorship campaign, promised to handle the matter if elected, they never expected it to happen so soon.

Chief Obot who described Governor Umo Eno as God -sent, noted that they have been in court with government for many years battling the issue of harmonised pension for their members.

Appreciating the Governor, the group leader assured that since the Governor has activated this reconciliation initiative, they will withdraw the case from court and allow this government intervention to run its full course.

At the meeting were the Deputy Governor - Senator Akon Eyakenyi, Secretary to the State Government - Prince Enobong Uwah, Head of Service,  Elder Effiong Essien, and Permanent Secretary Government House - Mr Godwin Udoh.