The Plateau State House of Assembly has withdrawn a controversial bill seeking pension benefits for former lawmakers, following public criticism and opposition from labour unions, civil society groups and residents.
The decision was announced on Thursday in Jos by the Majority Leader of the Assembly and Chairman of the Joint Committee on Rules and Business, Finance and House Services, Joseph Gokum.
The lawmaker said the withdrawal followed consultations, public reactions and discussions by the committee after concerns were raised over the proposed pension package.
The bill, which sought allowances for former members, principal officers and presiding officers of the Assembly, had faced backlash from stakeholders who described it as inappropriate due to the economic difficulties affecting workers and pensioners in the state.
Gokum said the Assembly considered the views of citizens and groups who expressed concerns about the timing of the proposed law.
He said the 10th Plateau Assembly remained committed to accountability, transparency and making laws that serve the interest of the people.
According to him, the committee agreed to withdraw the bill after reviewing the concerns presented by labour unions, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.
He added that the decision was not a sign of weakness but showed that the Assembly respected democratic values and was willing to listen to public opinion.
The withdrawal came a day after members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), civil society organisations and other residents protested at the Assembly complex, calling for the removal of the bill.
The protesters argued that approving pension benefits for former lawmakers at a time many workers and retirees were facing financial challenges would be unfair.
Gokum thanked the labour unions, civil society groups and residents for engaging with the Assembly peacefully, adding that public participation remained important in strengthening democracy.
He said the Assembly, under the leadership of Speaker Naanlong Daniel, would continue to focus on laws that promote good governance, accountability and development in Plateau State.
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