By Vincent Ujumadu
AWKA — GOVERNOR Peter Obi of Anambra State has distributed cheques totaling N872 million to 795 pensioners who retired in 2009.

The cheques, which were for retired workers of the State Local Government System, were presented during an impressive ceremony which took place at the Women Development Centre, Awka.

Six hundred and sixty pensioners collected their cheques, while 135 next of kin collected for their deceased relations.

Distributing the cheques, Governor Obi said arrangement had been concluded to clear the 2010 gratuity within the first quarter of next year, saying it was now mandatory for workers to collect their gratuity on retirement.

The governor enjoined the pensioners to use their money prudently to uplift their standard of living and assured that his administration would sustain the policy of prompt payment of pensions and gratuity.

According to him, the state has remained in the fore-front in the fight against extreme poverty and hunger, explaining that his administration had not borrowed any money since its inception.

The governor also said  the state had continued to record steady growth in all sectors, noting that every community now had a primary healthcare centre, while every local government had a General Hospital with necessary equipment and personnel.

Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy matters, Mr. Dubem Obaze, said the presentation was a fulfillment of a promise made by the governor.