We Neither Determine Our Salaries Nor Receive Special Fiscal Packages From The President -Senate Replies Obasanjo

By:Israel Adeleke 

The Senate has responded to former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s claims that lawmakers determine their own salaries and receive special fiscal packages from the Presidency. In a statement, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, described the allegations as an attempt to “crucify the legislature by the centurions of political hypocrisy.”

Adaramodu emphasized that no Senator has received financial patronage from the Presidency and clarified that constituency projects are merely suggested and nominated by Senators, following practices common in other democracies worldwide.

Obasanjo had stated that it was immoral for National Assembly members to determine their salaries and allowances, suggesting that the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMFAC) should handle this responsibility.

The Senate countered that it only receives the salary allocated by the RMFAC, in accordance with constitutional provisions, and challenged anyone with credible evidence to present contrary facts. The Senate also explained that the Executive arm of government awards contracts for constituency projects, and funds allocated vary depending on the number of constituencies in each state.

Adaramodu assured the public that the 10th Assembly remains a responsible and responsive chamber, committed to upholding the economy and growth of Nigeria, and only receives what is constitutionally allocated to it.