Obasempire reports that the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu has emphasized that the current remuneration of federal lawmakers falls short of sustaining them in executing their duties effectively.
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In a candid discussion on Channels Television’s ‘Politics Today’, on Monday, Kalu dismissed claims that the average lawmaker’s salary is extravagant, asserting that it barely meets their obligations.
He underscored the distinction between salaries and allowances, emphasizing that allowances are earmarked for constituency duties and cannot be tampered with.
“The salaries of the National Assembly are significantly lower than perceived. Even a 50% or 80% reduction would not align with the economic realities,” Kalu remarked, highlighting the challenges lawmakers face in serving their constituencies adequately.
He elaborated on the financial strains lawmakers encounter, including transportation costs, running constituency offices, and maintaining aides essential for fulfilling their mandates.
Kalu maintained that slashing salaries would not resolve the underlying issues but expressed readiness for adjustments if it enhances national progress.
He said, “Considering the cost of transport, running constituency offices and the number of maintaining aides who are supposed to have you achieve what the mandate of that office demands, it is not a discussion that will add value to the crisis we are faced with.
“But I can assure you they will be willing to adjust. If that is what will move Nigeria to the next level, why not? After all, we did not send ourselves there. We were voted in by the constituents.”
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Amid discussions on fiscal prudence, Kalu commended President Bola Tinubu for his decision to implement the 2012 recommendations of the Steve Oronsaye panel, applauding Tinubu’s commitment to effective governance.
Kalu’s remarks shed light on the complexities surrounding lawmakers’ compensation and the imperative for nuanced approaches to address legislative challenges, urging stakeholders to consider the broader context in deliberating on remuneration matters.