The Edo State Government has disbursed a total of N39 million to 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).
Presenting the cheques on behalf of Governor Monday Okpebholo, the Head of Service, Anthony Okungbowa, said the payment reflects the administration’s commitment to the welfare of public servants and their families.
He noted that the gesture demonstrates the government’s resolve to fulfil its financial obligations and ensure that families of workers who die in active service receive the benefits due to them.
Okungbowa described the cheque presentation as a significant milestone, stressing that it underscores Edo State’s dedication to protecting the welfare of its workforce even after their death.
He conveyed the condolences of Governor Okpebholo to the bereaved families and prayed that they find strength and comfort during the difficult period.
The Head of Service also explained that Edo State remains among the few states consistently complying with the provisions of the Contributory Pension Scheme, a development that has enabled the timely processing and payment of insurance benefits.
He commended the Chairman and Permanent Secretary of the Edo State Pension Bureau, Washington Abbe, for his leadership in managing pension affairs in the state.
Okungbowa further acknowledged the collaboration between the state government and insurance companies, noting that the partnership has helped ensure the smooth processing and payment of claims.
He advised the beneficiaries to make prudent use of the funds while conveying the appreciation of the state government for the dedication and service rendered by the deceased employees during their lifetime.
Speaking at the event, Abbe explained that the cheque presentation was in line with the provisions of the Contributory Pension Scheme Law, which mandates a Group Life Insurance policy for all public servants enrolled in the scheme.
He said the law stipulates that 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 beneficiary.
According to him, the Edo State Government has consistently fulfilled its obligations under the scheme, enabling the prompt settlement of insurance claims.
Abbe, however, noted that delays sometimes occur when families of deceased workers fail to submit essential documents such as death certificates and other required records.
He reaffirmed the Pension Bureau’s commitment to supporting the families of deceased employees and ensuring that all legitimate claims are processed in accordance with the law.
Among the beneficiaries were families of late 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 included the family of 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 were 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.
