Retirees Rise Up: Pensioners Decry Unfair Deductions, Accuse Union of Silence
Federal government retirees are raising their voices in anger, demanding an immediate end to monthly pension deductions taken by the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD) to fund the National Union of Pensioners (NUP). The seniors call the practice an unacceptable burden.
Their frustration is sharp and deeply personal. Many retirees argue the NUP has forfeited its right to their funds, accusing the union of standing idly by when pensioners most needed advocacy. They point to recent nationwide protests in cities like Lagos and Kaduna, organized by the Coalition of Federal Pensioners to demand unpaid benefits, as a moment the NUP was conspicuously absent.
“The union abandoned us when we took to the streets for our rights,” one retiree stated, echoing a sentiment felt by many. “Why should we fund an organization that fails to stand with us?”
The discontent deepened with broken promises. Alhaji Muhtari Muhammed Katsina, a vocal pensioner, expressed bitter disappointment over a reported deal with PTAD. He alleged that the Directorate, in collaboration with certain government figures, promised a one-month arrears payment to suspend the protests—a promise that remains unfulfilled.
While commending the Coalition for its decisive action in Lagos, Alhaji Katsina joined the growing chorus firmly opposing the monthly NUP deductions. “They take from our meager pensions, yet do not serve our interests,” he stressed.
The pensioners’ message is clear: stop the deductions, honor the agreements, and a union must earn the support of its members through action, not automatic deductions.
— Suleiman Kaura, reporting on a mounting clash between Nigeria’s retirees and the systems meant to protect them.
Source: Radio Nigeria Kaduna
