Shehu Sani Unveils the Truth Behind Nigerian Senators’ Earnings: “Basic Salary Was ₦750,000, Now It’s ₦1 Million

Former Senator Shehu Sani shed light on the often-misunderstood remuneration structure for Nigerian legislators. Sani, who served in the 8th Senate, aimed to clarify the public’s confusion surrounding the income of senators by breaking down the three main components of their earnings.

Sani explained that legislators receive three primary allocations: a basic salary, running costs for their offices, and constituency funds. He emphasized that these allocations are often misunderstood, leading to misconceptions about the actual take-home pay of senators.

Basic Salary and Running Costs
Sani revealed that during his tenure, the basic salary for a senator was ₦750,000, but it has since increased to ₦1 million. He also pointed out the significant role of the running cost allocated to each senator’s office. “The running cost of your office is not sent to the office account; it’s sent to your own personal account,” Sani explained. He clarified that this running cost is meant for maintaining both the senator’s office in the National Assembly and their constituency office. However, he noted that staff salaries are covered by the National Assembly, not deducted from the running cost.

The Controversial Constituency Fund
Sani further elaborated on the constituency fund, another key component of a senator’s allocations. Contrary to public belief, this fund is not deposited into the personal accounts of senators or members of the House of Representatives. Instead, it is managed by a federal agency. Legislators are required to submit project proposals within the limits of the fund, which could include building hospitals, schools, roads, or running empowerment programs. The agency then executes these projects in the legislator’s constituency.

Addressing Misconceptions
Sani addressed the confusion surrounding these earnings by stating, “What I know very well is that the basic salary during our time was ₦750,000, and now they said it’s ₦1 million. […] I can confirm that whatever comes to your account is due to you, irrespective of whatever appellation is attached to it.”

In essence, Shehu Sani’s explanation provides a clearer understanding of the financial allocations to Nigerian legislators, aiming to dispel the myths and misconceptions that often surround their earnings.