The representatives have resolved to cut 50% of their salaries to cushion hardship in the country and avert planned protests
In a bid to quell growing unrest, the House of Representatives has announced a decision to forfeit 50% of their salaries over the next six months. This move, amounting to ₦648 million from 360 member, aims to dissuade Nigerians from proceeding with planned mass protests
The lawmakers further appealed to Nigerians to give President Bola Tinubu‘s policies time to take effect as one years is not enough to judge performance.
ALSO READ: Subsidy Removal: Reps implore NLC, Organised Labour to ‘suspend protests’
These decisions followed a motion of urgent importance by Rep. Ibrahim Isiaka ( APC Ogun) on Thursday, titled, “need for an appeal to the proponents of proposed nationwide protest, to maintain, peace eschew violence and open windows for meaningful engagements with the government at all levels in order to address their issues”
Leading the debate, Rep. Isiaka appealed to Nigerians to prioritise peace, use wisdom, foresight and constructive approach to address national issues.
“Whereas, the citizens of Nigeria have the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and protest to address their grievances; the house presents with a humble plea, a plea for reason, understanding, and unity in the face of adversity,”
“ It is undeniable that Nigeria is facing significant challenges, challenges that have plagued our nation for far too long. The issues of insecurity, unemployment, and poverty weigh heavily on the hearts of every Nigerian.”
He emphasized that change does not happen overnight but requires patience, perseverance, and a commitment to working together towards a common goal. He added that while peaceful protest is a fundamental right in a democratic society, it is also important to allow the government the space and opportunity to consolidate the progress that has already been achieved
Contributing to the debate, the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu (APC Abia) appealed to young Nigerians, acknowledging their grievances: “Your crying is right, your complaint is right but is there solution found in carrying placards? No”
Kalu while thanking the mover of the motion said “We need to carry this motion to our various constituencies and appeal to them.” He made an appeal for members to cut 50% of their salaries which he said is ₦500,000 monthly although the Speaker interjected, saying the figure is ₦600,000. These funds, according to Kalu will help in providing food for Nigerians.
Similarly, Rep. Ahmed Jaha (APC Borno ), appealed to Nigerians and reminded them that tough times don’t last forever but tough people do, adding that President Tinubu is democratically elected and is setting out policies that will cushion the hardship. He therefore encouraged Nigerians to be patient.
Rep. Akin Rotimi jr (APC Ekiti), in his contributions said Nigerians have the right to exercise their fundamental right but that there is need for enlightenment by the National Orientation Agency (NOA) in collaboration with Minister of Budget and National Economic Planning so Nigerians are aware of what the government is already doing to alleviate the hardships of Nigerians.
The Speaker, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas (APC Kaduna) after putting the question, referred the motion to the committee on humanitarian services, appropriation, finance and national planning.
STAR Check: Nigerians, particularly, constituents of Info/Ewekoro federal constituency, can keep tabs on the legislative performance of Rep. Isiaka throughout the 10th House here
