The Edo State Government has presented cheques totaling N39 million to the families of nine deceased public servants under the State’s Group Life Insurance Scheme, in line with the provisions of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).
The cheques were presented on behalf of Governor Monday Okpebholo by the Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Okungbowa, who described the gesture as a reflection of the government’s commitment to the welfare of its workforce and their families, even after the employees’ death.
Okungbowa said the payment demonstrates the administration’s dedication to meeting its financial obligations to workers and ensuring that families of deceased employees receive the support due to them under the law. He also conveyed the governor’s condolences to the beneficiaries and prayed for comfort and strength for the affected families.
He noted that Edo State remains one of the few states consistently complying with the requirements of the Contributory Pension Scheme, which makes the timely processing and payment of insurance benefits possible.
The Head of Service also commended the leadership of the Edo State Pension Bureau, led by its Chairman and Permanent Secretary, Mr. Washington Abbe, for managing pension matters professionally and ensuring the smooth administration of the scheme.
He further highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government and insurance companies, noting that the partnership has continued to ensure efficient claims processing and prompt payment of benefits. Okungbowa urged the beneficiaries to make prudent use of the funds while appreciating the dedication and service rendered to the state by the deceased workers.
Speaking during the presentation, Abbe explained that the payment is in accordance with the CPS Law, which mandates a Group Life Insurance policy for all enrolled public servants. Under the law, when an employee dies while still in active service, a benefit equivalent to three times the employee’s annual salary is paid to the designated beneficiaries.
He said the Edo State Government has consistently fulfilled its obligations under the scheme, enabling the prompt settlement of claims. However, he noted that delays may occur in some cases when families fail to submit essential documents such as death certificates and other required records.
Abbe reaffirmed the Pension Bureau’s commitment to supporting families of deceased workers and ensuring that all legitimate claims are processed promptly in line with the law.
The beneficiaries and their deceased relatives include Ebomwonyi Osaro Kelvin of the Edo State Urban Corporation, with Egbogun Isi Blessing as beneficiary; Imasuen Iyobosa Grace of the Edo State Post Primary Education Board, with Imasuen James Atekha as beneficiary; and Osunbor Celilia of the Edo State High Court of Justice, with Christopher Chuks Ijeh as beneficiary.
Others are Monday Isobomuwa of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, with Iyobor Precious and Osarobo Isobomuwa as beneficiaries; Igbinigie Sunday of the Edo State Electrification Agency, with Sunday Blessing as beneficiary; and Ojo Kingsley Otaniyonwa of the Edo State Post Primary Education Board, with Ota Ojo David Osahon as beneficiary.
Also listed are Imuekemhe Angelus Aleakhue of the Edo State Post Primary Education Board, with Imuekemhe Ijenifa Aina as beneficiary; Ilobekemen Blessing Edjenekpo of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, with Onanefe Benedict Edjenekpo as beneficiary; and Osa Mercy Abieyuwa of the Hospital Management Agency, with Osa Iriagbonse as beneficiary.
The cheque presentation forms part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to uphold workers’ welfare and ensure that families of deceased employees receive the benefits due to them under the pension law.