NLC, CSOs Vow July 30 Siege as Lawmakers Push Self-Serving Legislation
A bill seeking lifetime pensions for Plateau State lawmakers has ignited fury across the state, with organized labor, civil society groups, and citizens branding the proposal “insensitive” and “reckless” amid worsening economic and security challenges.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) have threatened to besiege the Assembly complex on July 30 if the bill isn’t withdrawn.
The Controversial Bill
Sponsored by Eli Ankala (Rukuba-Irigwe Constituency), the bill passed second reading on Tuesday and seeks to establish a Pension Board to administer retirement benefits for:
· Former Speakers and Deputy Speakers
· Principal Officers
· All Assembly members
While Ankala argues the bill promotes transparency and eliminates ghost pensioners, critics see it as a blatant cash-grab by politicians who serve just a few years.
Minority Leader Disowns Bill
In a dramatic twist, Minority Leader Dewan Gabriel publicly distanced himself from the legislation, claiming he was listed as a co-sponsor without his knowledge or consent.
“At no time did I initiate, endorse or authorize any legislation aimed at granting lifetime pension to members,” Gabriel stated.
Labor’s Fierce Rejection
Eugene Manji, Plateau NLC Chairman, didn’t mince words:
“A worker who has served the state for many years retires with very little, yet someone who spends just one term wants lifetime pension. What some lawmakers spend in one week is more than the total retirement benefits of many workers.”
He vowed: “We are prepared to resist it. Let them go ahead and see what will happen.”
CSOs Demand Transparency
A coalition of 21 civil society organizations condemned the bill as:
· Ill-timed and self-serving
· Lacking public engagement
· Contradicting participatory democracy
The coalition demanded:
1. Immediate suspension of the bill
2. Publication of its full contents
3. Transparent public hearing with labor unions and experts
4. Governor Mutfwang to withhold assent if passed
Experts Sound Alarm
Prof. Chris Kwaja, International Relations expert, warned:
“This bill is reckless and amounts to abuse of office. It’s a dangerous path to kleptocratic rule if allowed. Citizens’ agency is needed to reverse such a move.”
Jacob Pwakim, Executive Director of YIAVHA, questioned lawmakers’ priorities:
“How can lawmakers feel comfortable living large in a state still battling to pay retired civil servants who struggle daily to survive?”
The Bigger Picture
Critics argue Plateau lawmakers should focus on:
· Rising insecurity
· Soaring unemployment
· Economic hardship
· Citizen welfare
Instead, they appear more concerned about their own comfort a disconnect that’s eroding public trust.
What Happens Next?
With organized labor threatening action, civil society mobilizing opposition, and public anger mounting, the bill’s fate hangs in the balance.
All eyes are now on:
· Whether lawmakers will suspend the bill
· If Governor Mutfwang will intervene
· How intense public resistance will become
One thing is clear: Plateau citizens are watching and they’re not backing down.
