Group condemns NASS over proposed life pension for principal officer

Punch reports that the union described the move by the legislators as ungodly and disgraceful.

Speaking to newsmen, the President and Acting Secretary General of the TUC, Bala Kaigama and Si‎meso Amachree in a joint statement said it was surprising that the lawmakers could plan such a move without considering the present economic situation of the country.

The labour leaders ‎”The Trade Union Congress condemns and describes as unfortunate the proposed life pension for presiding officers of the National Assembly after their tenure in office, even at a time the economy has collapsed and brought about massive job losses and unprecedented poverty.

“We also insist that those who violate the law no matter how highly placed should face the wrath of the law

‎”Is it not unfortunate that while we are yet to recover from the shock caused by some lawmakers who molested some white ladies in a hotel in the US, another drama is unfolding with the latest proposal of life pension for Senate president, deputy, Speaker of House of Representative and deputy?”

They also wondered why a Senator who has not raised any bill in a legislative year, should earn more than the President of the United States of America (USA).

Adding that the excessive privileges of the lawmakers is the cause of their desperation to remain in office.

The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, James Entwistle, recently petitioned the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, accusing some members of the lower chamber of improper conduct, attempted rape and soliciting for prostitutes while on official trip to the USA.