ADC has slammed the proposed salary hike for politicians and called the move an insult to Nigerians.
NaijaOnPoint Nigeria reports that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly opposed the planned salary increase for Nigeria’s political office holders, describing it as an insult to millions of citizens battling economic hardship.
The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) had recently proposed an upward review of the salaries of the President, Vice President, governors, legislators, and other top officials. The move has triggered widespread backlash, with critics accusing the government of being insensitive to the plight of ordinary Nigerians.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC said while it recognises the RMAFC’s constitutional role in reviewing the emoluments of public officials, such a proposal at this time exposes the disconnect between the political class and the reality faced by Nigerians.
“The African Democratic Congress (ADC) strongly condemns the plan by the RMAFC to increase the salaries of political office holders, including the President, Vice President, Senate President, governors, and others,” Abdullahi stated.
“Proposing a salary hike when millions are crushed under the weight of soaring food inflation, skyrocketing fuel costs, and an inadequate minimum wage, shows complete disregard for the people.”
‘Politicians Already Enjoy Huge Perks’
NaijaOnPoint Nigeria reports that the opposition party also dismissed the justification by RMAFC that the current pay structure is “outdated and inadequate,” noting that politicians already enjoy lavish allowances, perks, and discretionary funds that far exceed their official salaries.
“How else are political office holders able to sustain their extravagant lifestyles if not through opaque allowances and perks that ordinary Nigerians can only dream of?” the ADC queried.
It further contrasted the situation with the N70,000 national minimum wage, which it said has been eroded by inflation and, in many cases, remains unpaid.
Call for Immediate Suspension
The ADC insisted that the proposed salary review must be suspended immediately, stressing that it is unjustifiable at a time when citizens are grappling with extreme financial pressure.
“Government has no moral right to demand sacrifice from ordinary Nigerians while political elites insulate themselves from the harsh realities of the economy. Instead of padding the pockets of politicians, the focus should be on raising the minimum wage, ensuring fair and timely salaries for civil servants, and strengthening social welfare programmes,” Abdullahi declared.
The party concluded by urging the government to align its policies with the struggles of the people, warning that the current disconnect between the ruling class and citizens could deepen public discontent.