The Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) has sounded an alarm, stating that there are ongoing schemes to divide the long-established association. The union highlighted the recent registration of an alternative retirees' body by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment as a direct contravention of the Trade Unions Act and a significant risk to the decades-long unity among pensioners.
Comrade Godwin Abumisi, the President of the NUP, revealed this during a press conference following an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja. He explained that the meeting was convened to address what he described as "unfortunate developments" within the union.
Abumisi characterized the situation as serious, referring to the NEC meeting as a "rescue mission" aimed at preserving the NUP's integrity and unity. He stated that the ministry's action in registering a body named 'Association of Retirees of State Government' is a deliberate attempt to disrupt the solidarity, collective strength, and prevailing peace within the union's ranks for many years.
The NUP president emphasized that this action violates established labour legislation, specifically the Trade Unions Act Cap T.14, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. He asserted that this move must be actively prevented and opposed.
Despite these criticisms, Abumisi reiterated the NUP's history of constructive engagement with the government, commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration for its reforms in the pension sector. He noted that the NUP has consistently been peaceful and cooperative with all past Federal Governments, and particularly with the current administration.
He acknowledged and appreciated recent government interventions, such as the N58 billion allocated for Defined Benefit Scheme pensioners and N758 billion for contributory pension adjustments, stating that these measures have provided considerable relief to retirees.
"We remain grateful for the ongoing reforms in the nation's pension industry and the consistent approvals for fund releases, which have significantly alleviated the immense hardship and suffering experienced by our members recently," Abumisi remarked.
However, he cautioned that the progress achieved could be jeopardized if divisive actions continue. He urged union leaders to maintain unity and focus.
"I implore all members to contribute objectively, setting aside any tribal, political, or sectional sentiments that could threaten our unity, reputation, and continued relevance as a collective trade union entity," he advised.
Reaffirming his dedication to his leadership, the NUP president reminded members of his commitment to enhancing the union. "My mission statement, 'to leave NUP better than I met it,' continues to be my sole motivation," he stated.
He further called upon members to honour their oath of office by upholding discipline, unity, and collective responsibility in addressing the current challenges.
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