Planned nationwide protest forces House of Reps members to take temporary pay cut

MEMBERS of Nigeria's House of Representatives have agreed to take a 50% cut in their massive salaries for six months in order to support the federal government in its bid to provide succour for Nigerians currently reeling from the impact of hyper-inflation.

Nigerian lawmakers are among the highest paid in the world as they not only receive bumper salaries but also a plethora of handsome bonuses including clothing allowances and regular new cars. On the other hand, inflation is tearing Nigeria to shreds at the moment, forcing the federal government to hand out palliatives in the form of essential food items to the needy.

After a debate on the floor of the house today, members agreed to cut their pay by 50% for six months following a motion of urgent public importance introduced by Hon Ibrahim Isiaka from Ogun State. This motion was forced on the House by a planned nationwide protest by civil society groups next month to highlight the growing economic hardship in the country.

In an amendment to the motion, the deputy speaker of the House, Hon Benjamin Kalu pleaded with the lawmakers to cut their salaries by 50% for six months, which he said was to support the government in providing succour to Nigerians  and sequel to the August protest. Presenting his motion, Hon Isiaka said that the citizens of Nigeria had the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and protest to address their grievances.

Hon Isiaka said: "The house presents with a humble plea, a plea for reason, understanding and unity in the face of adversity. We trust that through peaceful engagement and dialogue, we can collectively work towards building a better and brighter future for Nigeria.”

He said that maintaining peace and engaging in constructive dialogue with the government was crucial for the resolution of issues facing the nation. Hon Isiaka then appealed to the proponents of the proposed nationwide protest to consider a different path, a path of patience, dialogue and collaboration.

Also, he  urged them to prioritise peace and open channels for meaningful engagements with the government at all levels. According to the lawmaker it is undeniable that Nigeria is facing significant challenges, challenges that have plagued the nation for far too long.

Hon Isiaka added: “The issues of insecurity, unemployment and poverty weigh heavily on the hearts of every Nigerian. The desire for change, for progress, for a better tomorrow is a sentiment that unites us all.”

He said that the current challenges were not unique to Nigeria alone, adding that they were issues that countries across the globe grapple with on a daily basis. The House said that the motion would be communicated to all relevant stakeholders and the general public to promote a peaceful and constructive approach to addressing Nigeria's national issues.