Edo Govt Disburses N54.3m Group Life Insurance Benefits To Families Of Deceased Workers

In line with the Pension Reform Act of 2014 and the Edo State Contributory Pension Scheme Law of 2010 (as amended), which mandate the establishment of a Group Life Insurance Policy for all employees under the scheme, the Edo State Government has presented cheques totaling ₦54,359,032.32 to 11 families of deceased employees as part of its statutory obligations and commitment to workers’ welfare.

The cheque presentation ceremony was held at the office of the Edo State Head of Service (HOS), Dr. Anthony Okungbowa, in Benin City. Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Directorate of Human Resources, Mrs. B.J. Igbinobaro, Dr. Okungbowa reaffirmed Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration’s commitment to the welfare of workers and their families, even after death.

According to him, “The law provides that every employee covered under the scheme is entitled to a sum equivalent to three times their last annual salary, payable to their named beneficiary upon death.” He extended condolences to the bereaved families and urged them to use the funds responsibly in honour of their loved ones’ service to the state.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Edo State Pension Bureau, Mr. Abbe Washington, advised the beneficiaries to put the funds to judicious use and avoid wasteful spending. He encouraged families, especially those with young children, to invest part of the money in education trust funds to secure their future.

Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Major Joseph Ede (Rtd.) expressed appreciation to the state government and the Pension Bureau for ensuring a transparent and timely disbursement process. He said, “We sincerely appreciate this gesture from the state government. It is reassuring and will no doubt motivate greater commitment from workers across the civil service.”

The beneficiaries include the families of the late Osagiede Efe (Hospital Management Agency); Lawrence Igbinigun (Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security); Agbonrofo Fidelia (High Court); Agho Felix Ikponmwonsa (High Court); Omotor Andrew Apapa (Ministry of Public Safety and Security); Owie Omawumi Susan (Post Primary Education Board); Okao Aimuanmwosa (Office of the Auditor-General); Agbonkhese Omonzele Georgiana (SUBEB); Igbinosun Nosakhare (High Court); Monday Enagbonkhonlen Omokhomion (Edo State Fire Service); and Igebu Emike (High Court).

The Edo State Government reaffirmed its determination to sustain prompt payment of insurance and pension benefits as part of ongoing reforms to promote transparency, accountability, and the overall welfare of workers in the state.