Plateau lawmakers in trouble over life pension bill

A proposed bill in Nigeria's Plateau State that would grant pensions and retirement benefits to former Speakers, Deputy Speakers, Principal Officers, and members of the State House of Assembly has ignited significant public backlash. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), civil society organizations (CSOs), and concerned citizens have condemned the proposal as self-serving and out of touch with the state's pressing economic and security challenges.

Leaders from the NLC, the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), and allied CSOs have signaled their intent to potentially blockade the Assembly complex on July 30 if the bill is not rescinded. The controversial legislation, sponsored by Eli Ankala, a member representing Rukuba-Irigwe Constituency, successfully passed its second reading during a plenary session presided over by Speaker Daniel Nanlong.

The bill aims to establish the Plateau State House of Assembly Pension Board to manage pensions, maintain beneficiary records, and enhance accountability. Ankala argued that the law would create a transparent and structured pension system for former lawmakers, eliminating ghost pensioners through proper documentation and verification. He stated it would ensure eligible former lawmakers receive their benefits in an "orderly, transparent and accountable manner."

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The establishment of the Pension Board would strengthen the administration of pension matters through proper documentation of beneficiaries, effective data management and regular verification to prevent irregularities.

However, criticism emerged immediately after the bill cleared its second reading. Many argue that lawmakers should prioritize addressing insecurity, unemployment, and economic hardship rather than creating additional financial benefits for themselves. The controversy deepened when Minority Leader Dewan Gabriel publicly disassociated himself from the bill, despite reports linking him as a co-sponsor. Gabriel issued a disclaimer stating he neither initiated nor supported the legislation and was surprised to be listed as a co-sponsor without his knowledge or consent, reaffirming his focus on transparency and initiatives to improve citizens' lives.

The NLC in Plateau State has officially rejected the bill, labeling it "ill-conceived, insensitive, and unacceptable." The union's stance underscores the broad public opposition to the proposed legislation.

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At no time did I initiate, endorse or authorise any legislation aimed at granting lifetime pension to members or principal officers of the House. To my surprise, my name was listed as a co-sponsor without my knowledge, consent or authorisation.