Nigerians across the country are expressing outrage over revelations that federal lawmakers receive an estimated N21 million monthly in allowances, describing it as “scandalous” and “unacceptable,” especially in light of the nation’s economic hardship.
These lawmakers are accused of being insensitive to the country’s struggles, with many citizens demanding that their allowances be slashed and that they be held accountable for mismanaging public funds.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo reignited the conversation when he criticized lawmakers for setting their own salaries, calling it “immoral.” He condemned the legislators for awarding themselves such extravagant benefits. “You give yourselves all sorts of things, and you know it is not right,” Obasanjo said during a meeting with representatives pushing for single-term and rotational presidency legislation.
In response, the Senate denied the accusations, claiming that each senator only receives N1.06 million monthly in salary and official allowances. However, Senator Sumaila Kawu from Kano South later revealed that after deductions, senators take home around N21 million monthly, sparking public outcry. This figure includes substantial additional allowances beyond the base salary.
Nigerians are calling for lawmakers to be prosecuted for fixing their own pay and exploiting public funds. Many believe these officials are more concerned with personal gain than the welfare of their constituents. Leaders from various sectors, including traditional rulers, civil society, and religious organizations, have joined in the criticism, urging the government to act swiftly to reform this unjust system.
HRM Eze Kalu Kalu Ogbu, a paramount ruler from Abia State, stated, “Nigeria lawmakers are only after their personal welfare and not bothered about the needs of the masses.” Archbishop Raphael Opoko of the Methodist Church also expressed concern, particularly in a nation where many people struggle to afford even basic necessities.
