The Senate has strongly refuted former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s recent claims that members of the National Assembly (NASS) set their own salaries.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Senate described these allegations as “uncharitable and satanic.”
Obasanjo, who served as Nigeria’s President from 1999 to 2007, had criticized the practice of lawmakers determining their own compensation, suggesting that it was “immoral” and should instead be handled by the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC).
Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu responded to these claims by challenging anyone with evidence to prove otherwise.
He emphasised that the Senate’s remuneration is strictly governed by the RMAFC, in accordance with the Nigerian Constitution.
According to Adaramodu, no senator has received any form of financial incentives from the presidency, contrary to Obasanjo’s claims.
Adaramodu clarified that the Senate receives only the salary and allowances allocated by the RMAFC.
He dismissed suggestions that the National Assembly fixes its own pay as misleading and unfounded.
He also reiterated that senators do not have the authority to adjust their salaries beyond what is prescribed by the RMAFC.
The former president’s remarks came after he hosted members of the House of Representatives in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
During this meeting, Obasanjo raised concerns about the ethicality of lawmakers deciding their own salaries and allowances.
He argued that such practices undermine public trust and called for reforms to ensure transparency and fairness.
In response, the Senate has assured that all financial matters related to lawmakers’ salaries are managed in compliance with the RMAFC guidelines.
Adaramodu also addressed the issue of constituency projects, which Obasanjo had linked to financial incentives.
He explained that while senators suggest and nominate projects for their constituencies, the actual funding and execution are handled by relevant government agencies and ministries.
The N100 billion allocated for these projects is intended for public infrastructure and development, not for personal use by lawmakers.
Adaramodu pointed out that the salaries and allowances of senators include a basic monthly salary and various allowances, totaling approximately N1,063,860.
This includes allowances for motor vehicle maintenance, personal assistance, domestic staff, and constituency expenses.
However, the exact amount for running costs, such as office expenses, was not disclosed in the statement.
Adaramodu’s statement also sought to address public concerns about the transparency of the Senate’s financial dealings.
He assured that the current leadership of the Senate is committed to responsible governance and would not engage in practices that could harm the country’s development.
