Okpebholo N4.6 Billion approval for entitlements to disengaged Edo Colleges of education staff ushers in era of justice, relief

Benin, Edo – In a heartening display of compassion and fiscal responsibility, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has approved the immediate release of the first tranche of a N4.6 billion settlement package to 714 disengaged staff from the Colleges of Education in Ekiadolor and Igueben.

This pivotal intervention addresses the lingering hardships faced by these dedicated educators and administrators, who were unceremoniously sacked under controversial circumstances by the previous administration of Godwin Obaseki, leaving families in financial limbo and casting a shadow over the state's education sector.

The disbursement, amounting to N1,164,507,285.17 for the initial phase, targets 682 pensioners from the College of Education, Ekiadolor, and 32 from its counterpart in Igueben.

As part of a structured four-tranche plan, this payment adheres strictly to the provisions of Nigeria's Pension Act, ensuring that long-serving public servants receive the dignified exit they rightfully deserve.

In a related move, Governor Okpebholo has also greenlit N292 million as the second tranche of entitlements for disengaged workers from the Colleges of Agriculture in Iguoriakhi and Agenebode, with funds slated for release by Wednesday.

This bold step builds on the administration's earlier releases totaling N1.4 billion across Edo's four colleges of education, a testament to Okpebholo's unwavering commitment to restoring equity in a system marred by past inequities.

The disengagements, which occurred amid broader reforms that critics decried as punitive, had plunged hundreds of households into uncertainty, with many retirees struggling to afford basic needs amid rising living costs.

By prioritizing these payouts, the governor has not only alleviated immediate suffering but also signaled a new chapter of accountability and worker welfare in Edo State.

Governor Okpebholo's administration has been vocal about its reform agenda for the education sector, emphasizing that no dedicated public servant should be left behind in the pursuit of progress.

In a statement issued Monday, Chief Press Secretary Fred Itua hailed the move as a "milestone reflecting Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to fairness, justice, and the welfare of the workforce."

Indeed, this action reaffirms the government's resolve to reposition education while honoring the sacrifices of those who shaped it.

In a political landscape often defined by delays and denials, his proactive stance sets a praiseworthy example, fostering trust in governance and breathing new life into families who have waited too long for redress.

As the remaining tranches roll out, Edo's educators can look forward with renewed hope, bolstered by a leader who values their legacy as much as their future.

This development comes amid broader efforts by the Okpebholo-led government to enhance worker welfare, including a recent hike in the state minimum wage to N75,000 earlier this year.

Stakeholders, including labor unions, have lauded these initiatives as steps toward a more inclusive Edo, where justice is not just promised but delivered.