Kogi Govt Spent N7b to Offset 1991-2007 Gratuity and Pension

The Capt Idris Wada’s administration has so far paid the sum of N7billion as outstanding gratuity and pension arrears of workers his administration inherited since 1991 to 2007.

Kogi State Deputy Governor, Yomi Awoniyi, made the disclosure at the presentation of cash to some indigenes of Mopa, under the Somidire Poverty Eradication Programme, held at Mopa Town Hall, Mopa.

Awoniyi who represented Capt Idris Wada at the event, described the delay in the release of the bail out funds due to the state as reason for council workers and teachers yet to get their outstanding salaries, assured that the funds could be delayed but that the workers legitimate entitlement cannot be denied them.

Awoniyi commended Godwin Abayomi of GODAB Engineering Company, an indigene of Egbe for grading Egbe to Ayetoro road, said the time for individuals to partner with government due to the present economic realities facing the country is now.

Awoniyi assured workers of the local government councils employed in 2010, but now disengaged to be patient as efforts is been made to revisit their matter.

Awoniyi commended the initiator of the Somidire Poverty Eradication for his compassion and efforts to put smiles on the faces of people, especially women of the area.

Awoniyi called on the women to use the money for the purpose intended, described women as good manager of resources, expressed optimism that the intention for the empowerment would be realized.

Awoniyi charged the women to reciprocate the gesture to vote Capt Idris Wada, for empowering the initiator of the program, and made a personal donation of N500,000 to assist in the poverty reduction scheme.

Earlier in a welcome remarks, Alex Ayodele John, the Sponsor/Chairman Somidire Poverty Eradication Programme, said the program to empower about 2500 women since the last seven months was his modest way of giving back to the society.

Mr Alex, thanked Capt Wada for creating an enabling business environment in the state, a factor he added has enabled him give back to the society, called on the people of Mopa to vote massively for Capt Wada in the November 21, governorship election.

In their separate response, Mary Emmanuel, Femi Ishola, all praised the initiator of the empowerment programme, said the gesture would put their businesses on a sound footing.