Finance Commissioner inspects payment of gratuities to Pensioners

Finance Boss, Akan Okon (r)inspecting ongoing payment of gratuities to pensioner

In a bid to ensure the smooth dispensation of outstanding arrears of gratuity benefits to Local Government Pensioners in the State, the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Akan Okon has visited the payment venue to inspect the ongoing exercise. The Commissioner who was accompanied on the visit by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs Eme-Ette  Imuk was conducted round the designated centre at the State Secretariat  complex by the Secretary, Local Government Pensions Board, Mr. Uduak Udo.

Addressing the participants, Mr. Akan Okon stated that the State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel was sensitive to the wellbeing of the retirees in view of their positive contributions to the State’s development while in active service. This, he said informed the prompt release of funds for clearance of backlog of gratuities owed them from 2000 to 2011.
He assured that government was working very hard in spite of the dwindling resources to ensure the payment of 100% of their benefits and sued for their continuous support to the State Governor for him to actualize all his lofty plans for the people of the State.
At the end of the inspection, Commissioner Akan Okon expressed satisfaction noting that the people were happy and that the orderly conduct would also ease and  fast-track the payment process.
The Secretary ,Local Government Pensions Board, Mr. Uduak Udoh lauded the uncommon magnanimity of the State Governor towards addressing the hardship hitherto faced by the Unified Local Government Pensioners over the years.
He said  gratuity cheques  would be issued to eligible Pensioners after the verification for onward movement to the bank for payment ,which have been going on since the inception of exercise .
On his part, the visibly elated Chairman ,Local Government Pensioners ,Obong Efanga Etah expressed gratitude to Governor Emmanuel for alleviating their sufferings .
Describing the Governor as a man of intergrity , Obong Etah said by this gesture their hopes have been rekindled , praying God to bless and sustain him as he continues to pilot the affairs of the State.