Ex-pension reform chairman Maina slumps, hospitalised

Abdulrasheed Maina, former chairman of the defunct Pension Reform Task Team, slumped on Tuesday outside his office in Abuja.

Emmanuel Nweke, media assistant to Maina, disclosed the incident in a statement issued on Tuesday.

Nweke said Maina lost his balance while entering the office, fell on the staircase, and hit his head before losing consciousness.

He attributed the incident to complications linked to a longstanding knee injury that had not been treated.

“The incident occurred following complications arising from an untreated knee injury, which caused him to lose balance and fall, resulting in his head hitting the staircase,” the statement reads.

“Medical personnel present promptly administered first aid, after which he was rushed to a private hospital in Abuja for urgent medical attention.

“Dr. Maina is currently receiving close medical care and remains under observation.”

He added that doctors had raised the possibility of emergency evacuation if his condition does not improve.

“Following preliminary medical assessment, one of the attending doctors advised that arrangements be considered for an air ambulance medical evacuation should his condition not stabilise within a short period,” he said.

“His family and medical team are closely monitoring his progress. The family appeals to the public for prayers, understanding, and respect for privacy at this critical time.”

Maina was recently released from Kuje correctional centre after serving a prison sentence for pension fraud.

In November 2021, Okon Abang, trial judge, convicted him of money laundering involving over N2 billion belonging to pensioners, “most of whom have died without reaping the fruits of their labour”.

The conviction and eight-year jail term were upheld by the court of appeal in May 2023.