Nigerians Outraged as Lawmakers’ Lavish Salaries Exposed: “They Only Represent Themselves,” Says Arewa Youth Leader

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo condemned Nigeria’s federal lawmakers for setting their own exorbitant salaries and allowances, labeling the practice as immoral. Obasanjo voiced his concerns during a meeting with six members of the House of Representatives, led by Ugochinyere Ikenga, who represents the Ideato North and South Federal Constituency in Imo State.

In response to Obasanjo’s critique, the Senate released a statement denying the accusations. Mohammed Shehu, Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation, and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), defended the lawmakers by revealing that each senator officially receives N1.06 million monthly as salary and allowances. Shehu provided a breakdown, including basic salary, motor vehicle maintenance, and other allowances, to justify the earnings.

However, Senator Sumaila Kawu, representing Kano South, painted a different picture. In an interview with the BBC Hausa Service, Kawu disclosed that his actual monthly take-home pay totals a staggering N21 million. This revelation sparked widespread outrage among Nigerians, who were quick to criticize the excessive compensation of lawmakers, especially in a country where many citizens struggle to afford basic necessities.

The disparity between the salaries of elected officials and the daily realities of average Nigerians has become a major point of contention. Mohammed Danlami, Speaker of the Arewa Youth Assembly, expressed deep disappointment in the lawmakers, urging them to cut down their bloated paychecks.

“It is so sad today that our elected representatives have abused the trust we invested in them by their selfishness,” Danlami stated. “It is quite disheartening to know that those we elected to represent us at the Senate and the House of Representatives and Houses of Assemblies across states now represent only themselves and their families.”

Danlami called on senators and representatives to urgently reduce their allowances and redirect the freed-up funds towards human capital projects that could significantly improve the lives of the people they are supposed to serve. His remarks echo the growing frustration among Nigerians who feel neglected by those in power.

As the debate over lawmakers’ pay continues, many citizens are calling for a more transparent and equitable system that truly reflects the interests of the Nigerian people.