The Abia House of Assembly made a significant decision on Tuesday, passing a bill aimed at halting the payment of pensions to former governors and their deputies within the state.
The bill, titled “A Bill (H.A.B 11:) for a Law to Revoke The Abia State Governors and Deputy Governors Pensions Law No 4 of 2001 and for other Matters connected in addition to that,” was introduced by Mr. Uchanna Okoro, the Majority Leader representing Arochukwu State Constituency.
Following its first and second readings, consideration at the committee of the whole, and final reading during the day’s plenary, Speaker Mr. Emmanuel Emeruwa announced the passage of the bill.
Commending members on the decision, Emeruwa highlighted that the bill would curb the state’s expenditure on governance and redirect resources towards development initiatives.
Once assented to by the governor, the bill will be referred to as the “Abia State Governors and Deputy Governor’s (Repeal) Law 2024” and will come into effect immediately, as declared by the Speaker.
With the enactment of this bill, former governors and their deputies will no longer receive pension benefits upon the expiration of their tenures.
The move comes amidst ongoing controversies over the lavish lifestyles and perks enjoyed by former governors and deputies, with many questioning the necessity of such benefits.
While some states have taken steps to repeal similar laws, others have been slower to act, sparking debates over the need for reform in governance and pension policies.
