LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE NAIJA)- Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has called on state governors to emulate Governor Alex Otti of Abia State in abolishing laws that support the payment of pensions to former governors and deputies across Nigeria.
The move comes after Abia State Assembly passed a bill repealing the 2001 law that provided pensions, including houses in Abia and Abuja, and lifetime salaries to former governors and deputy governors in the state.
Governor Otti swiftly signed the bill into law, sparking praise from Obasanjo during a visit to Otti’s residence.
Obasanjo criticised the pension law as a “rascality” and “daylight robbery,” highlighting the contrast between lavish benefits for former leaders and unpaid pensions for retired workers.
He commended Otti for taking a stand against the unjust system, urging other governors to follow suit.
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“I watched the television and I saw repealing Abia pensions and I asked you what exactly is this, and you said to me that the pension scheme for former governors here was too outrageous,” said Obasanjo during his visit.
“It’s like trouble because it allowed them to have a house in Abuja and elsewhere, and it allowed them to cart away with whatever they can, yet the pensions of ordinary people from 2014 were unpaid.”
“What sort of leadership! You came and said there would be an end to that rascality. I congratulate you, and I say to you, I hope that your colleagues will follow your footsteps?” Mr. Obasanjo added.
In response, Governor Otti expressed gratitude for Obasanjo’s recognition and reiterated his commitment to good governance and transparency.
“We are determined to change the narrative and ensure that the resources of our state are utilised for the benefit of all our citizens.
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“Ending the culture of excessive pensions for former leaders is just one step towards building a more equitable and accountable society,” Otti stated.
Acknowledging Otti’s efforts, Obasanjo stressed the importance of infrastructural development in Abia State, emphasising that with proper leadership and investment in infrastructure, the state can achieve significant progress.
In response, Governor Otti assured Obasanjo of his administration’s commitment to infrastructural development, particularly in Aba, the state’s commercial hub.
He cited ongoing road projects and emphasised the importance of providing adequate infrastructure to support economic growth and development in the state.