Retirees in Edo State have pledged their support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general election, after Governor Monday Okpebholo approved their return to the Defined Benefits Scheme (DBS) from the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).
The pensioners made the pledge on Wednesday during a thank-you and solidarity visit to Government House, Benin City.
Chairman of the Association of Retirees under the Contributory Pension Scheme, Mr. Asemota Osagie Andrew, said the CPS, as implemented under the previous administration, left many retirees worse off. He said he retired after 35 years of service and felt the pain of the system first-hand.
According to him, the governor’s decision shows a government that listens. He said the retirees are ready to mobilise support and canvass votes to help deliver the 2.5 million votes the governor has promised President Tinubu.
“We are here to thank you for matching words with action,” he said. “We will support you politically and ensure President Tinubu returns to Aso Rock for a second term. You have promised the President 2.5 million votes. Leave the strategy to us, we will deliver.”
He recalled that the retirees appealed to the governor to return them to the DBS and were told the matter would be looked into. “Within two weeks of our discussion, you granted our request,” he said. “Our colleagues in Lagos State are still fighting for theirs, while our amiable governor has settled ours here in Edo State.”
The association’s Secretary, Mr. Aikpitanyi Felix, said words of thanks were not enough for what the governor had done. He said the retirees would turn their appreciation into votes in 2027.
“This struggle began under the last administration, which failed to listen to us while we continued to suffer,” he said. “You have come to develop the state’s infrastructure, but also to develop its people.”
Other members of the delegation, Mr. Lawrence Osifo, Mrs. Veronica Ojehumen and Mrs. Mercy Itohan, also thanked the governor and pledged their loyalty and support for the 2.5 million votes target.
Responding, Governor Okpebholo said his administration’s priority is to develop Edo State and improve the welfare of its people.
“I was voted for because of the plight of Edo people, and I am in office to solve the challenges facing them,” he said. “You voted for me to develop Edo State, and that is exactly what I am doing. Anything that will not benefit Edo people, I will not do it.”
The governor described President Tinubu as a father who cares for Edo people, adding that the President’s support has made many of his administration’s achievements possible.
“The President cares for us. That is why, whenever I am taking a decision, I consult him, and when he gives me the go-ahead, I proceed,” he said. “I asked the President about your issue, and he gave me the go-ahead.”
