The Abia House of Assembly passed a bill on Tuesday to halt the payment of pensions to former governors and their deputies in 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 therewith," was sponsored by Mr. Uchanna Okoro, the Majority Leader and member representing Arochukwu State Constituency.
The Speaker, Mr. Emmanuel Emeruwa, announced the passage of the bill after its first, second reading, consideration at the committee of the whole, and its 3rd reading during the day’s plenary. Emeruwa, while congratulating members, said that the bill would reduce the state’s governance expenses and redirect resources towards development.
Once assented to by the governor, the bill will be referred to as "Abia State Governors and Deputy Governor’s (Repeal) Law 2024." The Speaker stated that the bill would take effect immediately, on Tuesday, March 19, 2024. With this bill, former governors and their deputies will no longer enjoy pension benefits after their tenures expire.
Over the years, there have been controversies regarding the extravagant life pensions and other enviable benefits paid to governors and their deputies. While a few states have taken steps to repeal such laws, many others have shown a nonchalant attitude towards doing so.
