The Nigerian Senate has firmly denied allegations that it determines its own salaries or receives special financial packages from the Presidency.
These claims emerged during a visit by members of the House of Representatives to former President Olusegun Obasanjo. The allegations have sparked widespread public debate.
But Senate Spokesman Yemi Adaramodu (APC, Ekiti South) released a statement on Sunday in Abuja, countering the claim.
He called the allegations an attempt to “crucify the legislature by the centurions of political hypocrisy”.
Adaramodu emphasised that no Senator had received financial patronage from the Presidency.
He explained that constituency projects linked to the legislature are merely suggested and nominated by Senators, following practices common in other democracies.
Senate Denies Special Salary Package
Adaramodu clarified that the Senate received only the salary allocated by the Revenue Mobilisation Fiscal Allocation Commission, in strict accordance with constitutional provisions.
People Also Read: Tinubu, Tell Nigerians The Truth About Fuel Subsidy – Bode George
He challenged anyone with credible evidence to present it, describing any suggestion that the National Assembly fixes its own salaries as “uncharitable and satanic”.
Adaramodu further stated that “the Executive arm of government, through its various ministries and agencies, is responsible for awarding contracts for constituency projects”.
He noted that funds for these projects vary by state to ensure that every region benefited from federal resources.
As the country enters what some call a “season of political pontificating”, Adaramodu assured the public that the 10th Assembly remains a “responsible and responsive chamber”.
He reaffirmed the Senate’s commitment to Nigeria’s economic growth.
Also, he stated that it only receives what is constitutionally allocated, without seeking additional perks from other government branches.
