Pensioners to embark on nationwide naked protest unpaid arrears

The Coalition of Federal Pensioners of Nigeria has announced plans for a nationwide nude protest as part of efforts to compel the Federal Government to settle outstanding pension increment arrears and palliative payments owed to its members.

The coalition’s National Chairman, Mr. Mukaila Ogunbote, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Friday in Lagos.

Ogunbote, who also heads the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, NIPOST Chapter, said the demonstration was scheduled for Dec. 8 unless the government clears the arrears of the N32,000 pension increment and the N25,000 palliative allowance approved in 2023.

“The Federal Ministry of Finance and Accountant General Office are not taking us serious; so, all pensioners must come out en masse to fight for the injustice,” he said.

He explained that the protest would be staged simultaneously in Abuja, Lagos and other states, targeting the offices of the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate and various Nigeria Television Authority stations.

Ogunbote also called on chairmen and secretaries of affiliate organisations to mobilise members for the action.

“We must show the wound that our clothes are covering.
“The protest is continuous until we receive alert of N32,000 pension increment and N25,000 for six months. Those who can’t come and go back should come with mats.

“All pensioners must come out and fight for their rights,” he said.