Kebbi State Government Defends Former Governors' Pensions

The Kebbi State Government has defended its position regarding the payment of pensions and severance gratuities to former governors, referencing constitutional provisions and state legislation. During a press briefing on Tuesday in Birnin Kebbi, Commissioner for Information and Culture, Alhaji Yakubu Birnin Kebbi, stated that the government's decisions were guided by legal frameworks, specifically the 1999 Constitution and the Kebbi State Pension and Gratuity for Former Governors and Deputy Governors Law No. 11 of 2004.

He noted a February 2010 directive from the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission regarding pensions for former governors and deputy governors. The commissioner clarified that certain benefits do not extend to governors who served between 1991 and 1993.

He emphasized that the government's stance is not a reflection of personal animosity and highlighted Governor Nasir Idris's commitment to respecting elder statesmen. The administration has shown goodwill through various forms of support for former leaders and has maintained contact with them.