Senate Replies Obasanjo Over Comment On Lawmakers’ Salary, Allowances, Other Special Packages

The Nigerian Senate has replied former President Olusegun Obasanjo following his recent comment about how the lawmakers reward themselves with staggering salaries and allowances.

The Senate, however, has asserted that it does not play a role in determining its own salaries or in receiving any special financial packages from the Presidency.

In a statement released on Sunday by Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs and a member of the APC from Ekiti South, the Senate characterized the allegations as an effort to “crucify the legislature by the centurions of political hypocrisy.”

Senator Adaramodu emphasized that no Senator has benefited from any financial support from the Presidency, clarifying that the constituency projects often associated with the legislature are merely proposed and nominated by Senators, in line with practices observed in other democratic nations.

Former President Obasanjo had previously stated that it is unethical for members of the national assembly to set their own salaries and allowances.

During a meeting on Friday with several members of the House of Representatives in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, Obasanjo remarked that the responsibility for determining the earnings of public officeholders lies with the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMFAC), adding, “Consider your situation, with all due respect.”

In further remarks, Adaramodu reiterated that the Senate receives only the salary designated to it by the Revenue Mobilisation Fiscal Allocation Commission, in strict compliance with constitutional mandates.

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The Senate has invited anyone with credible evidence to present opposing facts, labeling any assertion that the National Assembly determines its own salaries as “uncharitable and satanic.”

The Senate further explained that “the Executive arm of government, through its various Ministries and agencies, is responsible for awarding contracts for the constituency projects. The funds allocated for these projects, vary depending on the number of constituencies in each state and the intention is to ensure that every region of Nigeria benefits from federal resources”.

As the nation embarks on what many are calling a period of political discourse, Adaramodu has reassured the public that the 10th Assembly is both responsible and attentive. He reiterated the Assembly’s dedication to fostering Nigeria’s economic development, emphasizing that it strictly accepts its constitutionally designated allocations and will not pursue any extra benefits from other governmental branches.