Recent media reports have alleged discrepancies in the salaries of Nigeria’s House of Reps members, claiming that the lawmakers receive far more than officially stated.
These reports have stirred public interest and raised questions about transparency.
To address these concerns, House of Representatives spokesperson Rotimi Akin has confirmed that lawmakers receive a monthly salary of ₦600,000, not ₦900,000 as speculated.
Akin issued this clarification in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.
Furthermore, he emphasised that House members are committed to reducing their salaries by 50% to alleviate economic hardships.
He said: “The House of Reps has faced numerous media reports alleging salary discrepancies.
“Specifically, some reports suggest we received 100 percent of our July salaries.”
“The reports claimed our salary was ₦936,979. To clarify, the actual monthly salary is ₦600,000.
“This amount reflects deductions for advances, such as housing, paid at the start of tenure”.
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Akin noted that a member who displayed his salary on television was an exception.
This member assumed office through a court decision after completing the onboarding process.
He reaffirmed the House’s commitment to the July 18, 2024 resolution, which mandated a 50% salary reduction for six months.
“We acknowledge and regret that the bureaucracy did not implement the resolution for July as intended.
“Consequently, we formally instructed the bureaucracy on July 23.”
He explained that necessary administrative procedures and coordination with financial institutions caused the delay.
However, he assured Nigerians that the instructions for adjusting salaries have been issued and would be enforced moving forward.
Akin dismissed calls for an investigation, stating that journalists who sought clarification had already received the House’s position.
He called for patience and assured Nigerians that the House would continue to adhere to its pledge.
Alos, he promised ongoing efforts to earn the trust and confidence of Nigerians.
