A legislative proposal aimed at providing lifetime pensions and retirement benefits for former Plateau State House of Assembly members has sparked significant public unrest. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), along with various civil society organizations and citizens, condemned the bill as self-serving and disconnected from the state’s current economic and security hardships. Labor leaders have warned of a potential protest at the Assembly complex on July 30 if the proposal is not retracted.
The bill, introduced by Eli Ankala and passed through its second reading under Speaker Daniel Nanlong, intends to create a pension board to manage payments and verify beneficiaries. Supporters argue this will bring accountability to the process. However, the legislation has faced intense scrutiny, with many questioning the timing and necessity of such benefits when the state faces deeper structural issues.
Amid the backlash, Minority Leader Dewan Gabriel publicly denied any involvement in the bill, stating his name was included as a co-sponsor without his permission. Meanwhile, Plateau NLC Chairman Eugene Manji labeled the plan unacceptable, highlighting the disparity between the limited benefits of career civil servants and the lifetime pensions sought by short-term political office holders. A coalition of 21 civil society groups led by Steve Aluko has demanded that the Assembly halt the bill and conduct a transparent public hearing, while also calling on Governor Caleb Mutfwang to reject the measure if it reaches his desk.
