Muntari Abdu Ruma
KatsinaTimes
The coalition of labour unions in Katsina State has strongly opposed the proposed amendment to the state’s pension law by the administration of Governor Malam Dikko Umar Radda, warning that the changes would worsen the living conditions of civil servants after retirement.
Speaking to journalists shortly after a stakeholders’ meeting held at the state headquarters of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Alhaji Muntari Abdu Rumah, said the labour unions unanimously rejected the proposed review of the pension law, which was initially adopted six months ago.
“We do not support this amendment at all. The current pension framework, which has been in place for the past six months, was the one we collectively agreed upon. The proposed system being pushed forward mirrors that of the federal government, which we believe is not suitable for our local realities. It will bring hardship to workers who retire under this new system, and we will not accept it,” Rumah stated.
He further noted that the process leading to the amendment lacked proper consultation, alleging that only a few individuals introduced the changes without involving key stakeholders. However, he commended the Speaker of the Katsina State House of Assembly for making the draft of the proposed amendment available to labour representatives 24 hours before the meeting, allowing them to review and analyse the content in detail.
“We appreciate the Speaker and the Assembly for allowing us to study the document. Their actions show that they are working in the interest of the masses and the development of Katsina State,” he added.
Alhaji Rumah concluded by appealing to Governor Dikko Radda to reconsider the proposal, expressing confidence that the governor, known for his concern for the welfare of the people, would not intentionally endorse any policy that would bring hardship to workers and retirees in the state.
