Plateau NLC threatens Assembly picket over proposed lawmakers’ pension bill

…Plans July 30 protest, demands withdrawal of legislation

By Golok Nanmwa

JOS — The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Plateau State has announced plans to picket the Plateau State House of Assembly on July 30 over a proposed bill seeking pension and retirement benefits for members of the legislature.

The NLC, alongside the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Plateau State, described the proposed legislation as self-serving and called for its immediate withdrawal.

The position was made known on Wednesday during a joint press conference in Jos.

Speaking at the briefing, the Chairman of the NLC in Plateau State, Comrade Eugene Manji, said organised labour would oppose any attempt to pass the bill, insisting that lawmakers should prioritise legislation aimed at improving the welfare of citizens.

He argued that legislative autonomy was intended to strengthen democratic governance and not to advance personal interests.

“We are picketing the Plateau State House of Assembly on July 30, and we will remain there until this bill is withdrawn. We have the capacity to sustain the protest if necessary,” Manji said.

He also called on Governor Caleb Mutfwang to intervene and prevent the proposed legislation from becoming law.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the TUC in Plateau State, Comrade Kenneth Shammah, opposed the proposed pension package, noting that the state was still working to clear pension arrears owed to retirees.

He said it was inappropriate to introduce lifetime pension benefits for lawmakers while many pensioners were still awaiting their entitlements.

Shammah added that legislators could continue to contribute to society after leaving office and should not rely on lifetime pensions after serving a single tenure.

The Convener of the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Plateau State, Mr. Steve Aluko, also rejected the proposed bill, describing it as inconsistent with the principles of transparency and accountability.

According to him, public office is a platform for service rather than personal benefit.

Aluko warned that the coalition would join organised labour in the planned protest if the bill was not withdrawn.

He added that the coalition would mobilise residents and other stakeholders to oppose the legislation.

As of the time of filing this report, the Plateau State House of Assembly had not issued an official response to the position taken by the labour unions and civil society organisations.

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