In an interview on ChannelsTV, Senator Otunba Justus Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East District and former governor of Ogun State, provided insights into the crucial issues of political restructuring and pension policies in Nigeria.
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The interview, which revolved around the topic “Political Officers & Pension,” highlighted the senator’s perspectives on decentralising the policing system and ensuring equitable economic development.
Senator Daniel emphasised the importance of restructuring from various components, noting that even before the advent of President Tinubu’s administration, some preliminary adjustments had begun.
“One of the biggest problems facing us as a country is security,” he remarked. “Part of the components of restructuring is how to decentralise the policing system.”
He further elaborated on the concept of economic derivation, stressing the need for regions to benefit from their natural resources.
“If Zamfara people get something from gold, the Bauchi people get from tin, and my people (southwest) from gold and so on and so forth, everybody will feel that we are having a fair share,” he explained.
According to Senator Daniel, the discourse on restructuring is intrinsically linked to economic development.
Addressing the controversy surrounding double payments for political officers, Senator Daniel shared his personal experience.
Upon assuming office as a senator, he took steps to ensure that he would not receive double remuneration.
“I just said, ‘Oh, what are the things I need to tidy up now that I’m here (in government) again?’ And this issue of double payment came up,” he recounted.
He informed the governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, that he would be receiving his emolument as a senator and requested that his pension as a former governor be suspended.
The senator expressed shock at the significant public interest generated by his actions.
“It indicates that things that appear to be normal are becoming unusual in our country,” he observed.
He recalled a court judgment obtained by SERAP, which stated that individuals should not be entitled to double payments if they hold another public office.
For Senator Daniel, it was a matter of principle: “A human being should not be entitled to double remuneration.”
Reflecting on the public’s reaction, Senator Daniel noted that it highlighted a broader discontent with public figures.
“People are not happy with public figures any longer. People are sceptical that they will not do the right thing,” he said. He called for setting good examples to foster a better society where value systems are upheld.
Watch the full video below.
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