Tensions are mounting in Jos, Plateau State, as organized labor and civil society organizations brace for a major showdown with the Plateau State House of Assembly over a contentious legislative proposal seeking lifetime pension benefits for former principal officers and members of the Assembly.
​The legislation titled the “Pension Allowance Bill for Former Speakers, Deputy Speakers, Principal Officers and Members of the Plateau State House of Assembly” was introduced by Hon. Eli Ankala, representing the Rukuba-Irigwe Constituency.
​Outrage intensified after reports revealed that the Assembly accelerated the measure, passing both its first and second readings on the same day without initial public hearings or citizen consultation. Critics argue that the bill prioritizes personal enrichment over the urgent needs of a state struggling with severe economic hardship, rampant inflation, and persistent security challenges.
​At a joint press briefing following an emergency meeting at the NLC Secretariat in Jos on July 15, labor leaders and civil society representatives delivered a blistering critique of the assembly’s actions, calling the draft law “anti-people, self-serving, and insensitive.”
The NLC Plateau Council; Chairman Comrade Eugene Manji declared that workers would occupy the legislative complex starting July 30 if the bill is not unconditionally withdrawn. ​”It is unfortunate that while the government is struggling to clear pension arrears dating back to 1986—with parents of some of these lawmakers still waiting for their gratuities—lawmakers who served for only four years want lifetime pensions. We reject this in its entirety.”
​”It is unfortunate that while the government is struggling to clear pension arrears dating back to 1986—with parents of some of these lawmakers still waiting for their gratuities—lawmakers who served for only four years want lifetime pensions. We reject this in its entirety.”
TUC State Chairman Comrade Kenneth Shammah emphasized that former lawmakers retain professional skills and should return to private economic life rather than placing a perpetual burden on state finances.
Convener Comrade Steve Aluko criticized the legislative process as “undemocratic and extortionist,” warning that the coalition will publish the names of all lawmakers backing the bill to hold them accountable to their constituents.
Opposition leadership, led by PDP Publicity Secretary Dr. Choji Dalyop, urged Governor Caleb Mutfwang to protect public resources and veto the measure if passed.
​In response to the growing public backlash, legislative representatives asserted that the bill remains in its preliminary stages and will undergo public hearings before further consideration. However, organized labor and its allies insist that only a complete withdrawal of the bill will prevent the planned July 30 occupation of the State House of Assembly complex.
