In a move that has sparked widespread debate, the Benue State House of Assembly approved the highly contentious executive pension bill on Thursday. The bill, which was initiated by outgoing Governor Samuel Ortom, has drawn criticism for its generous provisions for former state governors and deputy governors.
Under the new legislation, ex-governors of Benue State will be entitled to a permanent residential accommodation in any location of their choosing within the country. Additionally, they will receive four brand new cars every four years, while former deputy governors will receive two new cars during the same timeframe.
Furthermore, the bill stipulates that ex-governors will be allocated six personal staff members, while former deputy governors will have three staff members at their disposal. Moreover, the legislation guarantees free medical treatment for past governors, their spouses, and a minimum of four children under the age of 18.
Reports indicate that the lawmakers swiftly passed the bill on Thursday, shortly after receiving an alert regarding their overdue salaries. It is alleged that the legislators, who had been grappling with a backlog of three out of six months’ salary arrears, succumbed to the temptation of the controversial bill’s provisions.
The approval of the executive pension bill has ignited a fierce public outcry, with many expressing concern over the financial burden it will place on the state. Critics argue that the legislation reflects a misplaced sense of priorities, given the pressing issues Benue State currently faces, including inadequate infrastructure and limited access to essential services.
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