ADC: Politicians already enjoy bogus allowances, proposed pay rise unjustified

• The party said politicians live in luxury and opulence while ordinary citizens battle economic hardship and unpaid wages.
• The ADC noted the N70,000 minimum wage is inadequate to sustain families and lacks supporting allowances to cushion rising costs.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned the proposed increase in the salaries of political officeholders by the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC).

The party said the move was not only insensitive but also an insult to Nigerians grappling with economic hardship.

In a statement on Wednesday, the national publicity secretary of the party, Bolaji Abdullahi, argued that the plan was ill-timed.

He noted that citizens are contending with inflation, rising fuel costs, and a minimum wage that remains unpaid in several states.

According to him, although the commission is empowered to review emoluments of political leaders, such a proposal shows disregard for the people.

“Millions of Nigerians are struggling with soaring food inflation, high fuel prices, inadequate and largely unpaid minimum wage,” the statement said.

“To recommend a salary increase for politicians at such a time reflects a complete lack of sensitivity.”

Abdullahi also dismissed RMAFC’s claim that the current pay structure for political officeholders is “outdated and inadequate.”

He said officeholders already enjoy numerous allowances and perks that push their total benefits far beyond what ordinary workers earn.

“These salaries are backed by bogus allowances, perks, and opaque discretionary funds that place them in comfort,” he said.

“If indeed these ‘outdated’ salaries mattered, how are they able to maintain their lifestyle of luxury and opulence?”

He stressed that the N70,000 minimum wage was insufficient for families, with most Nigerians lacking extra benefits to cushion costs.

“This proposal is not just tone-deaf, it is a complete affront to the Nigerian people,” Abdullahi said.

“It portrays a government disconnected from the daily struggles of its citizens.”

The ADC urged the government to channel resources into increasing wages for workers, paying salaries on time, and improving welfare.

“Political leaders cannot isolate themselves from economic hardship while demanding sacrifices from citizens,” the statement added.