African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly opposed the proposed salary increase for political office holders, calling for its immediate suspension amid widespread economic hardship faced by Nigerians.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Bolaji Abdullahi, criticized the move, stating, “Proposing substantial pay increases for political leaders while millions grapple with inflation, soaring fuel costs, and an inadequate minimum wage shows a blatant disregard for the people’s plight.”
Abdullahi acknowledged the constitutional role of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) in reviewing salaries for top officials, including the President, Vice President, and governors.
However, he argued, “Such a review is ill-timed when ordinary Nigerians are struggling with food inflation and a N70,000 minimum wage that is often unpaid.”
He dismissed attempts by the RMAFC chairman to justify the salary hike, pointing out that political office holders already benefit from “bogus allowances and discretionary funds” far exceeding what most Nigerians earn.
“Unlike public office holders, everyday citizens receive no additional support to cushion the rising cost of living,” Abdullahi noted.
The ADC demanded that the government halt the proposed increase and prioritize policies that uplift Nigerians.
“The government has no moral ground to demand sacrifice from citizens while enriching political elites,” Abdullahi said, urging a focus on raising the minimum wage to a living standard, ensuring timely salary payments for civil servants, and strengthening social welfare programs for the vulnerable.
He concluded, “Political leaders cannot be insulated from economic hardships while ordinary Nigerians suffer. Government policies must prioritize the people’s welfare over the affluence of office holders.”
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