The Abia State House of Assembly has taken decisive action to curb excessive government spending by passing a bill aimed at halting pension payments for former governors and their deputies in the state.
Sponsored by Mr. Uchanna Okoro, the Majority Leader and member representing Arochukwu State Constituency, 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” received unanimous support from assembly members.After undergoing rigorous scrutiny, including first and second readings, consideration at the committee of the whole, and a third reading during the day's plenary, the bill was successfully passed.
Speaker Mr. Emmanuel Emeruwa, in announcing the bill's passage, hailed it as a significant step towards reducing the state's governance expenses and redirecting resources towards development. Upon assent by the governor, the bill will be referred to as “Abia State Governors and Deputy Governor’s (Repeal) Law 2024” and will take effect immediately, marking March 19, 2024, as a historic day in Abia State politics.
With the enactment of this bill, former governors and their deputies will no longer enjoy pension benefits after their tenures have expired, signaling a departure from the controversial practice that has sparked public outcry over the years.
The move by the Abia State Assembly has garnered widespread acclaim from citizens and observers alike, who view it as a positive step towards promoting good governance and prudent financial management. However, questions remain about the governor's stance on the bill and the potential challenges it may face in implementation. Nonetheless, the passage of this legislation underscores the Assembly's commitment to enacting meaningful reforms that benefit the people of Abia State and serve the public interest.
