By Rafiyat Sadiq
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has urged the Federal Government to suspend its plan to increase the salaries of political office holders, describing the proposal as insensitive to the economic realities confronting Nigerians.
The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) is currently reviewing the remuneration of the President, Vice President, governors, and other top officials.
Reacting on Wednesday, ADC National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, faulted the timing of the move, insisting it showed a lack of empathy from leaders.
“Proposing such a review when millions of Nigerians are grappling with high food prices, soaring fuel costs, and an inadequate minimum wage demonstrates a troubling disconnect from the suffering of the people,” Abdullahi said.
He noted that political leaders already enjoy generous allowances and benefits far above the N70,000 national minimum wage, which many workers are yet to receive consistently.
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“How else are political office holders able to sustain their lifestyles of luxury and opulence if indeed these so-called outdated salaries are what they live on?” Abdullahi asked.
The ADC maintained that it was unacceptable for leaders to call for sacrifices from citizens while seeking to insulate themselves from the same economic challenges.
“For context, our minimum wage is N70,000 per month, which inflation has eroded. Unlike politicians, most Nigerians do not enjoy allowances or additional emoluments,” the party said.
It urged the government to shelve the proposed increases and instead prioritise raising workers’ wages and improving the living standards of ordinary citizens.
“As a party, we firmly believe that all government policies at this time should focus on lifting the most vulnerable and ensuring a livable wage, rather than enriching political elites,” Abdullahi added.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
