Civil society groups in Plateau State have slammed a proposed pension bill for former state lawmakers, calling it ill-timed and self-serving. Steve Aluko, who convenes the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations, made this known in a statement shared with journalists in Jos.
The coalition argues the bill contradicts transparent and accountable governance. They say it's particularly troubling given that Plateau residents are battling economic hardship, insecurity and joblessness.
According to the groups, the legislation would saddle the state with lifetime financial obligations to former political office holders. This, they contend, cannot be justified when competing development needs demand attention.
The coalition expressed alarm at how lawmakers processed the bill. Reports show it passed its first and second readings on the same day, the groups said.
"Sufficient legislative scrutiny or public engagement didn't happen," the statement noted. Lawmakers rushed the process without proper review, the organisations argued.
Complicating matters, the bill's contents remain hidden from the public. Citizens, labour unions, professional bodies and civil society groups haven't seen what they're asked to fund, the coalition said.
The groups see this secrecy as a democratic breach. "The lack of a public hearing for legislation with major spending implications weakens transparency and undermines public trust in the legislative process," their statement read.
The coalition wants inclusive policies focused on economic growth and public welfare. "Plateau State needs laws that strengthen public services and improve citizens' wellbeing, not legislation serving the few," they added.
They've now demanded the assembly freeze all further action on the bill immediately. The lawmakers must make the full text public and hold a transparent hearing with citizens, workers, pensioners, professionals and economic experts, the groups insisted.
The coalition also urged the governor to reject the bill if it reaches his desk in its current form. "We flatly oppose any self-serving, economically draining law that ignores ordinary people's reality," the statement declared.
The groups say Plateau deserves legislation advancing inclusive growth, fiscal discipline and citizens' interests. "These principles must come before the welfare of former political office holders," they concluded.
