Retirees in Edo State have pledged to mobilise support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, following Governor Monday Okpebholo’s approval of their return to the Defined Benefits Scheme (DBS) from the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

The pensioners made the commitment on Wednesday during a thank-you and solidarity visit to the Government House in Benin City, where they commended the governor for addressing their long-standing concerns over the pension arrangement and pledged to help deliver the 2.5 million votes he had promised the president.

Asemota Osagie Andrew, chairman of the Association of Retirees under the Contributory Pension Scheme, said the previous administration’s implementation of the CPS had left many retirees struggling, adding that his experience after 35 years in public service gave him first-hand knowledge of the difficulties faced by pensioners.

He described Okpebholo’s approval of their return to the DBS as evidence of a government willing to listen to the concerns of retirees, saying the association was prepared to translate its appreciation into political support for the governor and Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election.

“We are here to thank you for matching words with action. We will support you politically and ensure President Tinubu returns to Aso Rock for a second term. You have promised the president 2.5 million votes. Leave the strategy to us; we will deliver,” Andrew said.

He recalled that the association had appealed to the governor to return its members to the DBS and was assured that their concerns would be considered.

According to him, the governor approved the request within two weeks of their discussion, a development he contrasted with the continuing struggle of pensioners in Lagos State over a similar demand.

Aikpitanyi Felix, secretary of the association, said the governor’s intervention went beyond what words of appreciation could adequately express, pledging that the retirees would demonstrate their gratitude through their votes in 2027.

Felix accused the previous administration of failing to address the pensioners’ grievances despite their prolonged appeals, adding that the present government had demonstrated concern for both infrastructure development and the welfare of Edo residents.

Other members of the delegation, including Lawrence Osifo, Veronica Ojehumen and Mercy Itohan, also commended the governor and pledged their support for the 2.5 million-vote target.

Responding, Okpebholo said his administration was focused on developing the state and improving the welfare of its residents, insisting that his decisions would be guided by the interests of Edo people.

“I was voted for because of the plight of Edo people, and I am in office to solve the challenges facing them. You voted for me to develop Edo State, and that is exactly what I am doing. Anything that will not benefit Edo people, I will not do it,” the governor said.

He also credited Tinubu with supporting his administration, describing the president as a leader who cares about Edo State and whose backing had helped facilitate some of the state government’s decisions and achievements.