Plateau Assembly bows to pressure, withdraws ex-lawmakers’ pension bill

The Plateau State House of Assembly has withdrawn a bill seeking to grant life pensions and retirement benefits to former lawmakers following public outcry and opposition from labour unions and civil society organisations.

The decision was announced in Jos on Wednesday during a press conference by the Majority Leader and Chairman of the Joint Committee on Rules and Business, Finance and House Services, Joseph Gokum.

Our correspondent reports that the bill, which sought to provide pension allowances for former members, principal officers and presiding officers of the Plateau State House of Assembly, was introduced earlier this month.

However, the proposal immediately attracted criticism as it came at a time when Plateau, like many other states, was grappling with unpaid gratuities and pensions owed to retired civil servants, as well as ongoing negotiations over the new minimum wage.

The Nigeria Labour Congress, Plateau State Council, the Trade Union Congress, civil society organisations and other concerned citizens described the bill as “insensitive” and “a waste of public resources.”

Labour leaders argued that it was wrong for lawmakers to prioritise life pensions for themselves while workers and pensioners were still owed entitlements. They threatened to mobilise workers for mass protests and industrial action if the Assembly proceeded with the bill.

The NLC also warned that the move would deepen inequality and erode public trust in government at a time of economic hardship.

Across Jos and other parts of the state, radio programmes, social media platforms and town hall meetings were dominated by criticism of the bill. Many stakeholders said it did not reflect “the aspirations and realities of the people”—a phrase later echoed by the Assembly in announcing its withdrawal.

Addressing journalists, Gokum said the House had carefully considered the concerns raised by the public.

“The decision followed careful consideration of the concerns raised by civil society organisations, labour unions and concerned citizens of Plateau State,” he said.

He added that the Assembly had acknowledged and respected the views of stakeholders, particularly in light of the prevailing economic realities.

“We acknowledge and respect the position of our stakeholders. Their voices reflect the realities of our time and the expectations of the people we serve. As representatives of the people, it is our duty to ensure that every law we make promotes equity, fairness and the overall welfare of all Plateau citizens, especially workers and pensioners who have given years of service to the state.”

Gokum then formally announced the withdrawal of the bill.

“In view of the foregoing, and after due deliberation by the Joint Committee, we have resolved to withdraw the bill.”

He described the decision as “a demonstration of maturity, humility and respect for public opinion.”

The majority leader also thanked civil society organisations, labour unions and Plateau residents for their constructive engagement.

“We sincerely appreciate the civil society organisations, labour unions and all Plateau citizens who engaged with us constructively on this matter. Your vigilance strengthens our democracy.”

The withdrawal effectively eased tensions in the state, with labour leaders describing the Assembly’s decision as a victory for people-centred governance.