Plateau State House of Assembly on Wednesday withdrew a proposed bill seeking to provide pension allowances for former Speakers, Principal Officers, and members of the Assembly after their tenure in office.
The Chairman of the House Joint Committee on Rules and Business, Finance, and House Services, Hon. Joseph Gokum, who represents Kanke Constituency, announced the withdrawal while addressing journalists during a press conference at the Assembly Complex in Jos.
Reading the resolution of the 10th Assembly, Hon. Gokum said: “I, Hon. Joseph Gokum, as Chairman of the Joint Committee on Rules and Business, Finance and House Services, wish to formally announce the withdrawal of the Bill for a Law to Establish Allowances as Pension for former members, Principal Officers, and Presiding Officers of the Plateau State House of Assembly.”
He explained that the decision followed consultations with relevant stakeholders and reflected the Assembly’s commitment to the public interest.
“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 devoted years of service to the state.
“In view of the foregoing, and after due deliberation by the Joint Committee, we have resolved to withdraw the bill,” he stated.
Hon. Gokum stressed that the withdrawal should not be interpreted as a sign of weakness but rather as a demonstration of maturity, humility, and respect for public opinion.
“This decision is a demonstration of maturity, humility, and respect for public opinion, as well as the concerns expressed by organisations, labour unions, and the good people of Plateau State,” he added.
The proposed legislation, which originated from the Assembly’s Principal Officers, was presented on the floor of the House by the member representing Rukuba/Irigwe Constituency, Hon. Eli Ankala.
Following its introduction, the bill attracted widespread criticism from civil society organisations, labour unions, and members of the public, many of whom described it as controversial and self-serving.
In the withdrawal statement, the Assembly reaffirmed its commitment to good governance, stating, “the Plateau State House of Assembly, under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel, remains committed to making laws that promote good governance, unity, and the development of our dear state.”
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Plateau State, Comrade Eugene Manji; the Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Comrade Kenneth Shammah; and the leader of the state’s civil society organisations, Comrade Steve Aluko, all welcomed and confirmed the withdrawal of the bill.
The labour and civil society leaders spoke shortly after a meeting with Hon. Joseph Gokum in his capacity as Chairman of the Joint Committee on Rules and Business, Finance, and House Services.
