The Plateau State House of Assembly has withdrawn a bill seeking to provide allowances as pensions for former Speakers, principal officers and members of the House.
The withdrawal was announced on the floor of the House, today, hours after the joint leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), Plateau State councils, issued a statement announcing the picketing of the Assembly tomorrow, reports Daily Trust.
Recall that the proposed bill, sponsored by Mr Eli Ankala (APC, Rukuba/Irigwe), passed second reading on July 7, but Organised Labour unions had earlier criticised the bill and asked the House to withdraw it or face picketing.
Reacting to the development, the Majority Leader and Chairman, Joint Committee on Rules and Business, Finance and House Services, Hon. Joseph G. Gokum, announced the withdrawal of the bill today.
“Distinguished Colleagues, Members of the Press, Civil Society. Following extensive consultations, public feedback, and in the spirit of responsiveness that defines the 10th Plateau State House of Assembly.
“I 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.
“The 10th Assembly remains committed to the principles of transparency, accountability, and people-centered legislation.
“Since the Bill was introduced, we have listened carefully to the concerns raised by Civil Society Organizations, Labour Unions, and concerned citizens of Plateau State who protested and made submissions on the matter.
“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.
“In view of the foregoing, and after due deliberation by the Joint Committee, we have resolved to withdraw the Bill.This decision is a sign of demonstration of maturity, humility, and respect for public opinion. The Organizations, Labour Unions, and the good people of Plateau State.“On behalf of the Joint Committee and the entire House,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 Plateau State House of Assembly under the leadership of Rt. Hon.Naanlong Daniel remains committed to making laws that will promote good governance, unity, and the development of our dear State,” Hon Gokum explained.
