Serving and retired workers of the Delta State Hospital Management Board Multipurpose Cooperative Society II have appealed to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and the state Attorney-General to intervene in the recovery of their withheld savings, reportedly exceeding ₦70 million.
The affected members said the prolonged dispute over the cooperative’s funds had left many unable to access their contributions, which they had hoped to rely on after retirement.
The cooperative’s president, Emelereta Emmanuel, said the delay had disrupted the society’s annual general meetings and exposed executive members to threats and harassment from frustrated members demanding access to their money.
Some retirees, including a couple who left service in 2025, said they had more than ₦2 million in savings but remained unable to withdraw their funds.
Lawyer Benjamin Amede alleged that the cooperative’s immediate past executive committee had failed to account for contributions collected during its tenure. He said members had petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate the matter.
According to Amede, the dispute had led to several court cases before the state Ministry of Justice initiated mediation efforts in June. The parties reportedly agreed to withdraw their court cases, submit account statements and hold an annual general meeting by September, after which members’ funds would be released.
However, members said the agreed steps had not resulted in the release of their savings, despite their compliance with the mediation process.
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The cooperative’s secretary, Israel Watite, said the situation had caused significant distress among serving workers and retirees who had contributed to the scheme for years, expecting to receive their savings and dividends upon retirement.
Watite further alleged that the cooperative’s accumulated funds could amount to at least ₦800 million and possibly exceed ₦1 billion over more than two decades, although members had yet to recover their contributions.
Another member, Omogha Faith, appealed to the state government to intervene, expressing concern over threats and growing frustration among members.
When contacted, the Director of Cooperatives under the Ministry of Trade and Investment, Joseph Okotie, said he was unable to comment at the time and suggested speaking later. However, subsequent calls and messages reportedly went unanswered as of the time the report was filed.
The affected members are urging the Delta State Government to facilitate the release of their funds, ensure accountability and help them recover their savings amid the unresolved dispute.
The allegations remain claims made by cooperative members and have not been independently established.
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