By Ayodele Oni
Bowing to public resentment, the Plateau State House of Assembly has withdrawn the controversial bill seeking to establish special allowances for former members, principal officers, and presiding officers of the Assembly.
Opposition to the proposed legislation has been from Civil Society Organizations, labour unions, and members of the public.
The Chairman of the Joint Committee on Rules and Business, Finance and House Services, who is also the House Majority Leader and Member representing Kanke, Hon. Joseph Gokum announced this during a press briefing at the Assembly complex on Wednesday.
He explained that the decision followed extensive consultations, public feedback, and the Assembly’s commitment to responsive governance.
According to the committee Chairman, the 10th Plateau State House of Assembly remains committed to transparency, accountability, and people-oriented legislation.
He pointed out that since the bill was introduced, the Assembly had carefully listened to concerns raised by civil society organizations, labour unions, and other stakeholders who protested against the proposed legislation and made formal submissions.
The committee acknowledged that the concerns expressed by the various groups reflected the realities facing the state and the expectations of the people the lawmakers represent.
“As representatives of the people, it is our duty to ensure that every law we make promotes equity, fairness, and the overall welfare of all Plateau citizens, especially workers and pensioners who have devoted years of service to the state.”
The Chairman stressed that the decision should not be interpreted as a sign of weakness but rather as a demonstration of maturity, humility, and respect for public opinion.
He further assured that the Assembly remains open to future legislation that would address the welfare of former lawmakers in a manner that is sustainable, equitable, and acceptable to the people of Plateau State.
The chairman also expressed appreciation to civil society organizations, labour unions, and residents of the state who participated constructively in the debate over the proposed legislation.
According to the Chairman, the active participation of citizens in governance strengthens democracy and reinforces the Assembly’s resolve to remain accountable to the people.
He reaffirmed that the 10th Plateau State House of Assembly, under the leadership of Speaker Rt. Hon. Na’anlong Daniel remains committed to enacting laws that promote good governance, unity, and the overall development of the State.
It could be recalled that the Plateau State 10th Assembly had on the 7th July, 2026, sponsored the bill titled, “A Bill for a Law to Establish a Payment Allowance as Pension for Former Speakers, Deputy Speaker, Principal Officers and Members of the Plateau State House of Assembly and for Other Related Matters,”.
The bill was rejected by many stakeholders including Labour Unions and Civil Society Organizations who planned to protest at the Plateau State House of Assembly premises to register their disagreement with the proposed bill
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