Kwara: Pensioners appeal to Governor over secretariat eviction notice

By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin

Pensioners in Kwara State, under the umbrella of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) Kwara State chapter, have called on Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq to rescind a quit notice issued by the Kwara State Geographic Information Service (KGIS) demanding the union vacate their state secretariat.

The state government, as part of its urban renewal project to beautify the state capital, has issued notices to owners of buildings and structures obstructing traffic flow, requesting their removal. The NUP’s state secretariat has been among those affected.

In a statement signed by NUP Kwara Chairman, Comrade Saidu Oladimeji, and Secretary, Comrade (Chief) Abraham Jona Gana JP, the union urged the state government to reconsider its decision, requesting an alternative location for the secretariat until a new one can be constructed.

“The Union is not opposed to vacating the current premises, but we are requesting that an alternative building be provided for our operations and a piece of land allocated for constructing a new secretariat,” the statement read.

The appeal followed a letter titled “Removal Notice” from the Kwara State Geographic Information Service, dated August 30, 2024, which gave the union 24 hours to vacate their secretariat. The pensioners expressed shock and disappointment over what they described as a harsh and unfair decision, particularly given the short notice and the lack of alternative accommodation.

The NUP noted that it has previously taken steps, including applying for an alternative site and a piece of land for a new secretariat, but these requests have not been granted. The union stressed that its sudden eviction without these provisions would cause significant hardship and inconvenience to its members, who are senior citizens.

“The decision to issue a removal notice with such short notice is not only unjust but also imposes a severe burden on the union,” the statement continued. “The Union has always supported the current administration and expected more considerate treatment in return.”

The NUP reiterated its request for the governor to provide a temporary location and allocate land for a new secretariat, ensuring that if granted, they will proceed with construction promptly.

The union concluded by reaffirming its support for the administration, saying, “We remain committed to cooperating with the government and wish Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, the new Sadauna of Ilorin, continued success.”