Nigerian Senate Refutes Obasanjo’s Claim on Salary Determination

The Nigerian Senate has dismissed accusations by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who labeled the Senate “immoral” for allegedly determining their own salaries. The Senate insists that their salaries are constitutionally allocated by the Revenue Mobilization Fiscal Allocation Commission (RMAFC). The Nigerian Senate has come under scrutiny following allegations made by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who accused the legislative body of immorally fixing their own salaries and allowances. Obasanjo’s remarks have sparked a nationwide debate about the compensation of government officials, especially amid the economic hardships facing the country.

In his statement, Obasanjo criticized the National Assembly for what he termed as an “immoral” practice of determining their own financial benefits. He argued that such responsibility should rest solely with the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), which is constitutionally empowered to set the salaries of public office holders. “It is not right for me to be the one to declare and determine what I pay myself,” Obasanjo asserted, expressing concern over the Senate’s alleged actions.

However, the Senate has strongly refuted these claims. Yemi Adaramodu, the Senate spokesperson, labeled Obasanjo’s comments as “uncharitable,” stating that the Senate does not have the authority to set its own salaries. According to Adaramodu, the Senate’s compensation is strictly determined by the RMAFC, and any suggestion to the contrary is unfounded.

“The Nigerian Senate is petrified by the tattling story of determining its own salaries and receiving a special fiscal package from the Presidency,” Adaramodu remarked. He further challenged any individual or entity with evidence to the contrary to come forward, reinforcing the Senate’s stance that they do not and cannot dictate their pay.

The Senate spokesperson also clarified the role of parliamentarians in constituency initiatives, noting that while they may nominate projects, they have no control over the execution or allocation of funds. He emphasized that these initiatives are contributions to the Federal budget to ensure that every region of Nigeria benefits from federal resources.

The controversy over government salaries has long been a point of contention in Nigeria, with many citizens criticizing the perceived lavish compensation of public officials. Obasanjo’s comments have reignited this debate, drawing attention to the broader issues of accountability and transparency within the Nigerian government.

As the conversation continues, the Senate’s firm denial of Obasanjo’s accusations may do little to quell the public’s concerns. With economic challenges continuing to affect the country, the question of whether government officials are overcompensated remains a pressing issue for many Nigerians.