The Nigerian Senate has firmly refuted allegations that it has the authority to determine its own salaries or receives special financial packages from the Presidency. These accusations emerged following a recent visit by members of the House of Representatives to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, raising significant public concern.
Senate Spokesman Yemi Adaramodu, representing Ekiti South, issued a robust denial of these claims, branding them as attempts by “the centurions of political hypocrisy” to undermine the legislature’s integrity. He assured that no Senator has received financial patronage from the Presidency and underscored that any claims suggesting otherwise are baseless.
Adaramodu explained that the constituency projects often associated with Senators are simply suggestions made by them and are subject to approval and funding by the Executive arm of government, in accordance with practices observed in democracies around the world. He emphasized that the Senate’s remuneration is strictly regulated and allocated by the Revenue Mobilisation Fiscal Allocation Commission, in line with constitutional provisions.
The Senate has challenged anyone with credible evidence to present it, dismissing the notion that the National Assembly sets its own salaries as “uncharitable and satanic.” It reiterated that the Executive arm of government, through various Ministries and agencies, is responsible for awarding contracts for constituency projects, with funds allocated based on the number of constituencies in each state to ensure equitable distribution of federal resources across Nigeria.
As Nigeria navigates what some are calling a “season of political pontificating,” Adaramodu reassured the public of the Senate’s dedication to its responsibilities. He affirmed that the 10th Assembly is committed to fostering the nation’s economic growth and maintaining transparency, and will not seek additional benefits beyond what is constitutionally allocated.
