Abia State governor, Alex Otti, has given his approval to the Abia State of Nigeria Governors and Deputy Governors Pension Repeal Law of 2024, which was recently passed by the Abia State House of Assembly.
Expressing his support for the bill, the governor, who emphasized that it is an executive bill, expressed his gratitude to the State House of Assembly for swiftly passing the legislation. He also assured the House of his administration’s full support.
Governor Otti stated that he had always believed that the government should not continue the practice of paying pensions to former governors and deputy governors in the state. He argued that the funds could be better utilized in addressing the pension arrears owed to retired workers in Abia since 2014.
“I want to clarify a few things. Even before we assumed office, many people who were familiar with our stance understood that we would not continue the practice of paying pensions and allowances to former government officials. Many individuals have reminded me that I will also become a former governor someday, and I agree,” Otti explained.
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Highlighting the importance of good governance and stewardship, the governor emphasized that government should not be driven by self-interest. He believed that repealing the pensions for governors and deputy governors was the right decision to make.
“It is all about good governance. It is all about serving our people. I firmly believe that any leader who views leadership as a business has lost their way. In my opinion, leadership is about stewardship. If you take all the resources that belong to the people you lead, I don’t think that is morally correct,” Governor Otti asserted.
Otti expressed his gratitude towards the House for the amicable relationship it maintains with the executive branch of government, emphasizing that it is founded on trust, respect, and a shared commitment to the welfare of the citizens.
When presenting the bill for his approval, the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Emmanuel Emereuwa, represented by the Deputy Speaker, Austin Meregini, highlighted that the bill seeks to revoke Law No. 4 of 2001, which authorized the state government to provide pensions to former governors and deputy governors.
He also extended his appreciation to the governor for collaborating effectively with the State House of Assembly.
