Sends 🆘 Open Letter to Governor Hope Uzodinma
Owerri, Imo State — A growing number of retired primary school teachers in Imo State have raised serious concerns over the prolonged non-payment of their gratuities, calling on the administration of Governor Hope Uzodinma to urgently intervene in what they describe as a “humanitarian and moral crisis.”
The affected retirees, who served the state diligently between 2010 and 2021, lamented that while some retired teachers have reportedly received their gratuities, many others remain abandoned without explanation or official communication.
According to the aggrieved pensioners, the selective settlement has created widespread frustration, emotional trauma, and growing questions about fairness and transparency in the gratuity payment process.
The retired teachers stated:
“We dedicated the productive years of our lives to educating Imo children and building the future of the state. Today, many of us are sick, hungry, neglected, and dying in silence because our earned gratuities have not been paid.”
The retirees further appealed directly to Governor Hope Uzodinma to investigate the delay and approve immediate payment of all outstanding gratuities owed to retired primary school teachers across the state.
The group emphasized that gratuity is not a favor but a legal entitlement earned through decades of public service.
The teachers also expressed disappointment that during a recent gathering of retired teachers in Owerri, the issue of unpaid gratuities for primary school teachers was allegedly not addressed.
Many of the affected retirees are currently battling severe economic hardship, age-related illnesses, and rising living costs, with some reportedly unable to afford medical care and daily feeding.
The teachers warned that continued neglect of retired civil servants could erode public confidence in governance and the welfare system designed to protect senior citizens after retirement.
They therefore called on the Imo State Government, relevant pension authorities, civil society organizations, and humanitarian stakeholders to urgently intervene before the situation worsens.
Their Appeal
“Imo belongs to all of us. These elderly retired teachers deserve dignity, justice, and the payment of their hard-earned gratuities. We respectfully call on Governor Hope Uzodinma to save our souls by ensuring immediate action on this matter.”
Signed:
Retired Primary School Teachers of Imo State
Seeking payment of outstanding gratuities from 2010–2021.
