The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has begun reviewing the remuneration packages for political, public, and judicial office holders across Nigeria, despite public uproar.
The move comes at a time when many Nigerians are struggling under severe economic hardship.
Political leaders, civil society actors, and ordinary citizens are sharply divided over whether a salary review is justified or insensitive.
RMAFC’s Head of Information and Public Relations, Maryam Yusuf, confirmed the review in a statement released in Abuja.
Outdated Salaries or Political Gamble?
Chairman of the Remuneration and Monetisation Committee, Mohammed Usman, said the review was necessary for the growth of Nigeria’s governance structure.
“The effort is also a significant move towards the implementation of one of the commission’s core mandates,” Usman stated during a retreat in Kano.
He disclosed that President Bola Tinubu currently earns ₦1.5 million monthly, while ministers take home less than ₦1 million — figures unchanged since 2008.
According to Usman, the review is not only about raising figures but also about “sustainability and affordability.” He stressed that the 1999 Constitution empowers the Commission to determine remuneration packages for political, public, and judicial office holders at all levels.
But many Nigerians have asked: Can a country grappling with high inflation, rising debt, and the highest number of poor people in the world afford to raise political salaries now?Obi and Labour Party React: “Insult to Nigerians”
Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, was scathing in his reaction. He described the proposal as “a shameless grab for more at the expense of Nigeria’s struggling majority.”
Obi said the plan reflects the widening gulf between leaders and ordinary citizens battling hunger, unemployment, and insecurity.
The LP in a statement signed by its interim National Publicity Secretary, Tony Akeni, also condemned the review, calling it “an insult to the intelligence of Nigerians.”
The party further dismissed the official pay figures of ministers and the president as misleading, accusing the RMAFC of trying to cover up the true cost of governance.
Civil Society Pushback: “This Is a Setup for Tinubu”
Founder of the Follow The Money initiative, Hamzat Lawal, also rejected the review, warning that political leaders pushing for higher pay should resign and join the private sector if dissatisfied.
Appearing on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, Lawal said the review was misplaced, insensitive, and politically dangerous for President Tinubu.
“I think this is even a setup for the President. Why would you want to make a decision that would make the leadership of the country so unpopular? Tinubu said that we must tighten our belts; this is the time for sacrifice. So, why is it that the political office holders don’t want to also sacrifice? Why is it that it is the citizens who should carry this burden alone?” Lawal asked.
His words echo widespread anger among Nigerians who believe government officials should cut costs instead of raising salaries. What do you think about this issue? Share your views in the comments section.Rate, Like 👍, Comment💬, share this article, and join us on our social media handles. You can also Submit your own story to get featured and earn rewards!
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