The Senate has addressed recent comments made by Senator Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila, who claimed during a BBC Hausa Service interview that he earns a total of N21 million monthly salary and allowances.
He also mentioned that each senator receives N21 million monthly as a running cost due to a recent increase.
However, Senate spokesman, Senator Yemi Adaramodu (Ekiti South), said that the running costs are distinct from the salaries and personal allowances set by the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC).
The RMAFC chairman, Mohammed Bello, had said that each senator’s monthly salary and allowances total N1,063,860.
Adaramodu, the chairman of the Senate committee on public affairs, said that running costs are not exclusive to the legislature and are necessary for the operational expenses of all governmental bodies.
He stressed that the funds are accounted for and used solely for official purposes, requiring proof of genuine expenditure.
Adaramodu said: “This is not a personal allowance or salary for the legislator. These funds also support the staff of constituency offices.”
The Senate spokesperson expressed discontent with the portrayal of excessive spending in Parliament, asserting that the Nigerian Senate comprises highly accomplished professionals motivated by a commitment to improving Nigeria’s political and socio-economic landscape.
In his statement, he reiterated, “For the umpteenth time, the Senate must respond to the outdated claims regarding inflated salaries and allowances attributed to senators.
The RMAFC has clearly outlined the monthly take-home pay for senators.”
Adaramodu further said that all government branches, including governors, ministers, and local councils, use running costs for their operations, and the National Assembly is no exception.
“The funds mentioned by Senator Sumaila are designated for the daily operations of senators’ offices, oversight activities, and community engagements, all of which are budgeted annually and properly accounted for.
“The National Assembly accounts for about 1% of the federal budget and has consistently adhered to this limit, even amidst financial constraints. The Senate remains committed to serving the nation with integrity and dedication, driven by a patriotic desire to revitalise Nigeria’s socio-economic fabric,” Adaramodu added.
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