The Abia Pensioners Forum has criticized the state government for ignoring their plight while clearing allowances and other benefits owed former councillors and local government chairmen.

The pensioners condemned the development when they addressed journalists in Umuahia on Monday.

Speaking on behalf of the senior citizens, the coordinator, Okey Kanu, expressed concern that pensioners who served the state government for 35 years or until 60 years of age, are yet to get their pension arrears and gratuities inherited from previous administrations.

He reminded Governor Otti about his promises to Abia pensioners before the 2023 polls, informing the state government that some pensioners have fallen sick or died without receiving their pension arrears and gratuities under his administration.

“Those still alive need this payment to feed, buy drugs and attend to other subsistent needs and health challenges.

“Ironically, since last year, former local government chairmen and councillors who served only two years under previous administrations have been paid their entitlements by the present administration.

“What an injustice that pensioners who retired after 35 years of service or on attaining 60 years of age are treated with levity, disdain and ignominy,” Kanu said.

Kanu, who is a lawyer, regretted that despite the campaign promises made to Abia pensioners by Governor Otti in 2023, his administration is yet to address pension and gratuities inherited from the previous administration.

He dismissed reports that the pension arrears inherited by the Otti administration have been cleared.

The Abia Pensioners Forum reiterated that its members would not forfeit their entitlements to the Abia State Government.