Hardships: Reps slash salaries by 50% for six months

Members of the House of Representatives on Thursday unanimously resolved to cut their salaries by 50 per cent for six months.

The resolution was passed sequel to the adoption of a motion sponsored by Hon. Isiaka Ibrahim, who appealed to the sponsors of the planned nationwide protests to jettison the idea and engage the government in dialogue.

In his intervention, Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu who posted an amendment to Hon. Ibrahim’s motion, acceded to the proposed 50 per cent reduction of the N600,000 monthly salaries to support Nigerians in view of the hardship in the land.

The Deputy Speaker said the salary cut is to be used to support the Federal Government’s efforts to address the rising cost of foodstuffs in the country with the view to ameliorating the hardship Nigerians are going through.

The motion was adopted and referred to the joint Committees on Humanitarian Affairs, Finance and Budget for compliance.

The 10-day planned nationwide protest is scheduled to commence is expected to commence on the 1st of August to the 10th of August 2024 to press home the demand for the reversal of some government policies and programmes.

In his lead debate, Hon. Isiaka who acknowledged that the citizens of Nigeria have the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and protest to address their grievances, underlined the need for Nigerians to exhibit understanding and unity in the face of adversity.

“Whereas, maintaining peace and engaging in constructive dialogue with the government is crucial for the resolution of issues facing the nation; be it resolved that this honourable House appeals to the proponents of the proposed nationwide protest in Nigeria to consider a different path, a path of patience, dialogue, and collaboration, prioritize peace and open channels for meaningful engagements with the government at all levels.

“Be it further resolved that all stakeholders should uphold the principles of democracy. respect human rights, and uphold the rule of law in their actions and engagements; we trust that through peaceful engagement and dialogue, we can collectively work towards building a better and brighter future for Nigeria.

“The House is aware that it is undeniable that Nigeria is facing significant challenges, challenges that have plagued our nation for far too long. The issues of insecurity, unemployment, and poverty weigh heavily on the hearts of every Nigerian. The desire for change, for progress, for a better tomorrow is a sentiment that unites us all.

“The House is further aware that the challenges we face are not unique to Nigeria alone. These are issues that countries across the globe grapple with on a daily basis. In a world that is constantly changing and evolving, no nation is immune to the complexities of governance and development. The road to change is not easy, and the journey towards a brighter future is often fraught with obstacles. 

“But we must not lose sight of the incremental steps that have been taken, the reforms that have been implemented, and the strides that have been made towards a more prosperous Nigeria.

“Belief that change does not happen overnight. It requires patience, perseverance, and a commitment to working together towards a common goal.

“While peaceful protest is a fundamental right in a democratic society, it is also important to allow the government the space and opportunity to consolidate the progress that has already been achieved.

“Let us engage in constructive dialogue, let us seek solutions through peaceful means, and let us stand united as one nation, one people, with a shared vision for a better Nigeria.

“Together, we can overcome the challenges that lie before us. Together, we can build a future that we can all be proud of.

“The House urges you, our fellow Nigerians, to consider the broader perspective, to act with wisdom and foresight, and to support efforts towards a more stable, secure, and prosperous Nigeria. Let us reason together. let us listen to one another, and let us work hand in hand towards a brighter tomorrow,” he said.

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