The new pension law passed by Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and assented to by Governor Godswill Akpabio on Monday, May 26, 2014 generated tension beyond the shores of the state.
The Pension bill grants a generous retirement package for persons who have served as civilian governors and deputy governors of the state with benefits which includes free medical services at a sum not exceeding N100 million for governors and their wives, a 300 per cent furniture allowance, 300 per cent vehicle maintenance and fueling allowance, among other things.
The bill had generated so much controversy and outrage within and outside the state, forcing the Governor to seek a repeal from the House.
If you think Governor Akpabio’s pension bill was outrageous, wait till you read about the Lagos State Governor and Deputy Governor Pensions Law of 2007 which is said to be one of the most lucrative pensions in the federation which is said to be one of the most profitable pensions in Nigeria.
Below is the highlight of the Lagos State Governor and Deputy Governor Pensions Law of 2007:
Annual Basic Salary: 100% of annual basic salaries of the incumbent governor and deputy.
Accommodation: One residential house in Lagos and another in FCT for the former governor; one residential house in Lagos for the deputy.
Transport: Three cars, two back-up cars and one pilot car for the former governor every three years; two cars, two back-up cars and one pilot car for the deputy every three years.
Furniture: 300% of annual basic salary every two years.
House maintenance: 10% of annual basic salary.
Domestic staff: Cook, steward, gardener and other domestic staff (no limit) who shall be pensionable.
Medical: Free medical treatment for former governor and deputy and members of their families (not just spouses).
Security: Two SSS operatives, one female officer, eight policemen (four each for house and personal security) for the eX-Governor; one SSS operative and two policemen (one each for house and personal security) for the deputy.
PA: 25% of annual basic salary.
Car maintenance: 30% of annual basic salary.
Entertainment: 10% of annual basic salary.
Utility: 20% of annual basic salary.
Drivers: Pensionable (no limit to number of drivers).
Severance gratuity: Not specified.
