Lawmakers withdraw the proposed lifetime pension bill after strong opposition from labour unions, civil society groups and concerned residents

The Plateau State House of Assembly has withdrawn a bill seeking lifetime pensions and retirement benefits for former lawmakers following widespread public opposition from labour unions, civil society organisations and residents across the state.

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The decision was announced in Jos on Wednesday by Joseph Gokum, Majority Leader of the Plateau State House of Assembly and Chairman of the Joint Committee on Rules and Business, Finance and House Services, after days of intense criticism over the proposed Plateau lawmaker pensions.

The bill, which was introduced earlier in July, sought to provide pension allowances for former members, principal officers and presiding officers of the state legislature.

The proposal, however, quickly became a source of public anger, coming against the backdrop of outstanding gratuities and pension payments owed to retired civil servants in Plateau State and ongoing discussions over the implementation of a new minimum wage.

The Nigeria Labour Congress, Plateau State Council, the Trade Union Congress, civil society organisations and other concerned citizens described the proposed benefits as insensitive and a needless burden on public finances.

Labour leaders argued that lawmakers should not prioritise lifetime benefits for former legislators while workers and pensioners continued to await their entitlements.

The unions also threatened to mobilise workers for mass protests and possible industrial action if the Assembly proceeded with the legislation, warning that the proposal could deepen inequality and further weaken public confidence in government.

The controversy soon spread beyond organised labour, with radio discussions, social media debates and town hall meetings across Jos and other parts of the state focusing heavily on the bill.

Many stakeholders argued that the proposal failed to reflect the economic realities confronting ordinary residents, particularly workers and pensioners struggling with rising living costs and delayed entitlements.

Responding to the backlash, Gokum said the Assembly had carefully considered the concerns raised by the public and other stakeholders.

“The decision followed careful consideration of the concerns raised by civil society organisations, labour unions and concerned citizens of Plateau State,” he said.

He said the lawmakers recognised the importance of listening to the people they represented, particularly at a time of economic difficulty.

“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,” Gokum said.

“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.”

The Majority Leader subsequently announced the formal withdrawal of the bill.

“In view of the foregoing, and after due deliberation by the Joint Committee, we have resolved to withdraw the bill,” he said.

Gokum described the decision as “a demonstration of maturity, humility and respect for public opinion”, signalling a retreat from a proposal that had generated significant tension across the state.

He also expressed appreciation to the civil society organisations, labour unions and residents who raised concerns about the proposed legislation.

“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,” he said.

The withdrawal brings an end, for now, to the controversy surrounding the proposed benefits for former lawmakers and represents a notable response to sustained public pressure.

For labour unions and civil society groups, the decision was welcomed as a victory for people-centred governance and a reminder that public institutions must remain responsive to the concerns of citizens.

The episode also highlights the growing scrutiny surrounding political office holders’ retirement benefits in Nigeria, particularly at a time when many states are facing financial pressures and struggling to meet obligations to workers and pensioners.

In Plateau State, the Assembly’s decision has eased immediate tensions, while the broader debate over the welfare of former public office holders and the financial responsibilities of government is likely to continue.

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The controversy ultimately demonstrated the power of sustained civic engagement, with the Assembly acknowledging that public opinion and prevailing economic conditions should remain important considerations in shaping legislation.