By Akinwale Kasali
Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo, representing Gombe North Senatorial District at the Senate has followed the footstep of Senator Gbenga Daniel by calling on Governor Muhammadu Yahaya to suspend the monthly pension and allowance of N694,557.82 accrued to him as a former governor of the State.
It would be recalled that Daniel, a former Governor of Ogun State also did the same by writing to Governor Dapo Abiodun to suspend his pension as a former Governor in the State.
According to a letter dated October 4, 2023, and addressed to Yahaya, Dankwambo asked for a suspension of his pension and allowance following his new job as a Senator.
He disclosed that the decision was reached following due consultation with relevant stakeholders including Civil Society Organisations, adding that it was sequel to his letter to Yahaya on issues relating to security allowance to Governors.
The letter partly reads: “Further to my letter to His Excellency dated September 28, 2023 on issues relating to security allowance to governors as per approval dated 20/09/2002, yours of 14/06/2019 and Executive Pension Act of 2007 (as amended) and other matters relating therein.
“ have interacted with Civil Society Organisations , integrity institutions, friends and associates on the above and decided to put them on hold and make a refund as appropriate.
“I, therefore, write to request for the suspension of my monthly pension/allowance of #694,557.82 only being paid to me as former Governor of Gombe State.”
Dankwambo added that upon the termination of his tenure as governor, he has never benefitted from perks accrued to former Governors, adding, “Also note that since I left office in 2019, I have never benefitted from any welfare packages, be it medical, furniture, transportation, etc.”
Nigerians have lamented the payment of pension and other allowances to former State Governors who, after office, are serving either as Senators or Ministers. They say it is not only unfair but totally illegal.
