NEWS
“Sanwo-Olu has done his part” — Sanwo-Olu to pensioners
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has issued a stern caution to retirees, advising them against donating their hard-earned pension funds to churches and mosques in the name of thanksgiving or tithes. Instead, he urged them to prioritize using their pensions to address their family needs.
This statement was made during the 105th batch of retirement bond certificate presentation ceremony held yesterday.
In his address, Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the significance of the pension payments, underscoring the Lagos State government’s unwavering commitment to its retirees. He reminded the retirees that their pensions are the fruits of their labor and should be used wisely.
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“This is not meant to solve all family problems. It is about you, what you have earned and worked for,” Sanwo-Olu stated. He added, “When they say they want to build a church or mosque and ask you to come out to pledge N3m, don’t do that. God will give you the wisdom to act. Sanwo-Olu has done his part.”
Criticism of Religious Opportunists
Sanwo-Olu’s remarks highlight a growing concern over religious leaders who exploit their congregants, particularly targeting vulnerable retirees. The call for massive donations under the guise of religious duty or divine reward often places undue financial strain on individuals who are already navigating the challenges of retirement.
This practice is particularly concerning given the emotional and psychological pressure exerted on retirees to demonstrate their faith and generosity. Such exploitation not only undermines the financial security of the retirees but also diverts crucial resources away from their primary purpose: ensuring a comfortable and dignified retirement.
Transition to ‘Pay-As-You-Go’ Pension Administration
The ceremony also marked a significant milestone in Lagos State’s pension administration, transitioning to a ‘Pay-As-You-Go’ system. Governor Sanwo-Olu announced that henceforth, all state government retirees will be paid as they retire, provided all procedures and approvals have been completed.
“Today, we mark the 105th Retirement Bond Certificate presentation, a historic milestone as we transition into a new era of Pension Administration called ‘Pay-As-You-Go’,” Sanwo-Olu announced. “From now on, all retirees of the state government will be paid as they retire, provided all procedures and approvals have been completed before retirement.”
A Call for Financial Prudence
Sanwo-Olu’s caution serves as a critical reminder for retirees to practice financial prudence and resist external pressures to make substantial donations. It is imperative for retirees to focus on their well-being and that of their families, ensuring that their pensions serve their intended purpose.
As Lagos State leads the way in supporting its retirees through timely pension payments, the governor’s message underscores the need for a collective reassessment of how religious and community obligations are balanced with personal financial security. This approach seeks to protect the interests of retirees, allowing them to enjoy the fruits of their labor without undue external influence.