The Plateau State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly criticised a bill before the Plateau State House of Assembly that seeks to grant life pensions to state lawmakers. In a statement issued on Wednesday by its Publicity Secretary, Choji Felix, the opposition party described the proposed legislation as “self-serving,” arguing that it would place an additional financial burden on the state at a time of economic and security challenges.
PDP Alleges Self-Serving Motives
The PDP alleged that the bill, pending before the All Progressives Congress (APC)-dominated House of Assembly, was aimed at providing lifelong financial benefits for lawmakers rather than addressing the needs of Plateau State residents. According to the party, the proposal is ill-timed, given the state’s ongoing security concerns and economic constraints. The PDP warned that the legislation could divert public resources from critical sectors such as infrastructure and human capital development.
Call for Withdrawal and Public Opposition
“The mandate given to lawmakers is to legislate for the common good, not to create state-funded wealth for themselves at the expense of the people,” the statement said. The party warned that if enacted, the legislation could establish what it described as a dangerous precedent by encouraging the use of public office for personal enrichment. The PDP, therefore, called on members of the House of Assembly to immediately withdraw the bill.
The opposition party also urged civil society organisations, labour unions and other advocacy groups to mobilise public opposition through lawful and peaceful means. It called on citizens to engage their representatives and demand that they vote against the proposal. The PDP further appealed to residents of Plateau State to remain vigilant and oppose any measure it believes could undermine prudent management of public resources.
PDP Vows to Block the Bill
The PDP said it would pursue all lawful and democratic means to ensure the proposed bill does not become law. As of the time of filing this report, the Plateau State House of Assembly had not responded to the PDP’s allegations.
