Cost of governance: Abia assembly stops pension for ex-govs, deputies.

According to Newsmen, the Abia State House of Assembly has taken a significant step towards fiscal responsibility by passing a bill aimed at halting the payment of pensions to former governors and their deputies in the state. Sponsored by Mr. Uchanna Okoro, the Majority Leader representing Arochukwu State Constituency, the bill, titled "A Bill for a Law to Revoke the Abia State Governors and Deputy Governors Pensions Law No 4 of 2001 and for other Matters connected therewith," received unanimous support during its passage.

Speaker Mr. Emmanuel Emeruwa announced the successful passage of the bill after undergoing first, second, and third readings, including consideration at the committee of the whole during the day's plenary session. He commended members for their support, emphasizing that the bill's enactment would serve to reduce the state's governance expenses and reallocate resources towards developmental projects.

Upon assent by the governor, the bill will be referred to as the "Abia State Governors and Deputy Governor's (Repeal) Law 2024" and will come into effect immediately, starting Tuesday, March 19, 2024. The legislation marks a pivotal moment in Abia's governance landscape, signaling a departure from the practice of providing pension benefits to former governors and their deputies after their tenures expire.

The move comes amidst longstanding controversies surrounding the generous pension packages and other benefits extended to former governors and their deputies, prompting calls for reform across various states. While some states have taken steps to repeal similar laws, others have been slow to address the issue, leading to widespread public scrutiny and criticism.