The proposed Plateau pension bill seeking lifetime pensions and retirement benefits for former Speakers, Deputy Speakers, Principal Officers and members of the Plateau State House of Assembly has attracted widespread criticism, with organised labour, civil society organisations and residents describing the move as insensitive amid the state’s economic and security challenges.
The controversy has also prompted threats of mass protests, with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC) and allied civil society groups warning they may stage a demonstration at the Assembly complex on July 30 if the legislation is not withdrawn.
Sponsored by the lawmaker representing Rukuba-Irigwe Constituency, Eli Ankala, the bill passed second reading during Tuesday’s plenary presided over by Speaker Daniel Nanlong. The proposed legislation seeks to establish the Plateau State House of Assembly Pension Board, which would oversee pension administration, maintain beneficiary records and strengthen accountability in the management of retirement benefits for former lawmakers.
While presenting the bill, Ankala argued that the measure would create a transparent pension system, improve documentation, eliminate ghost beneficiaries through regular verification and ensure eligible former legislators receive their retirement benefits in an orderly and accountable manner.
The proposal immediately generated public backlash, with many questioning the timing of the legislation as Plateau continues to grapple with insecurity, unemployment and economic hardship. The controversy deepened after Minority Leader Dewan Gabriel publicly denied sponsoring or supporting the Plateau pension bill, despite reports linking him to it. Gabriel stated that his name was included among the sponsors without his knowledge or approval, insisting that his legislative focus remains on transparency, accountability and policies capable of improving the welfare of Plateau residents.
The Plateau State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress condemned the bill, describing it as insensitive and unacceptable. State NLC Chairman Eugene Manji argued that lawmakers should focus on legislation capable of improving security, boosting the economy and addressing citizens’ welfare rather than creating lifetime benefits for elected officials.
He noted that many civil servants spend decades serving the state yet retire with limited benefits, while lawmakers who serve relatively short terms now seek lifelong pensions. According to him, organised labour is prepared to resist the proposal if it progresses further.
A coalition of 21 civil society organisations also opposed the proposed legislation, describing it as self-serving, ill-timed and inconsistent with accountable governance. The coalition questioned the speed at which the bill advanced through the Assembly and expressed concern that citizens, labour unions, professional associations and other stakeholders were not adequately consulted despite its significant financial implications.
The organisations called on lawmakers to suspend further consideration of the bill, publish its full contents and organise a transparent public hearing involving labour representatives, pensioners, civil society organisations and economic experts. They also urged Governor Caleb Mutfwang to withhold assent should the legislation reach his desk without substantial public consultation.
Public policy advocates also criticised the proposal, arguing that it reflects a disconnect between elected officials and the realities confronting ordinary citizens. Executive Director of the Youth Initiative Against Violence and Human Rights Abuse (YIAVHA), Jacob Pwakim, described the timing of the legislation as inappropriate, saying lawmakers should prioritise solutions to security challenges and economic hardship rather than expanding benefits for political office holders.
Similarly, Civil Liberties Organisation Executive Director Steve Aluko argued that the bill primarily serves lawmakers’ personal interests instead of addressing pressing public concerns. Professor of International Relations and Strategic Studies, Chris Kwaja, also criticised the proposal, warning that granting lifetime pensions to legislators after relatively brief periods in office could encourage what he described as “kleptocratic rule” and undermine public trust in governance.
As opposition to the Plateau pension bill continues to grow, many stakeholders insist the Assembly should prioritise legislation capable of tackling insecurity, unemployment, poverty and improving public welfare instead of creating additional financial obligations for former political office holders. With labour unions threatening protests and civil society organisations calling for broader public scrutiny, attention is now focused on whether lawmakers will reconsider the proposal or proceed despite mounting resistance.
