Members of Nigeria’s House of Representatives have called for an increase in their salaries and allowances in light of the removal of fuel subsidy and the country’s current economic situation. The demand was made during a meeting held on July 11, which prompted the House to enter into an executive session to address the matter and ease tensions.
During the meeting, lawmakers expressed their concerns about the delay in the payment of their salaries and allowances, which has led some of them to seek loans. However, a lawmaker who spoke anonymously clarified that the discussion was focused on the need for a review of their salaries and allowances, as they no longer adequately meet the demands of their job.
The request for a review was prompted by the economic challenges caused by the removal of fuel subsidy, which has resulted in an increase in the prices of goods and services across the country. While the Speaker, Tajudeen Abass, did not make any promises regarding the review, he explained that such a demand would need to go through the budgetary processes and was not included in the 2023 budget.
In an effort to alleviate the impact of the fuel subsidy removal, President Bola Tinubu sent a communication to the House on July 12, requesting an amendment to the 2022 Supplementary Appropriation Act. The amendment would allocate N500 billion for the provision of palliatives to cushion the effects of the subsidy removal for Nigerians.
Overall, the lawmakers’ request for a salary and allowance review reflects their recognition of the economic challenges facing the country and their desire for fair compensation that aligns with the demands of their role.