Senate Insists: ‘We Don’t Earn N21 Million in Monthly Allowances’

On Thursday, August 15, the Nigerian Senate categorically denied allegations of paying senators a monthly sum of N21 million in salaries and allowances.

Senator Adeyemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committees on Media and Public Affairs, issued a statement in Abuja addressing the claims made by Senator Abdulrahman Kawu Sumaila. Sumaila, in a recent interview with BBC Hausa Service, stated that he receives a cumulative N21 million monthly, including running costs and his N1 million statutory salary.

Adaramodu clarified that “running cost” differs significantly from the salary and personal allowances allotted to lawmakers. He emphasized that the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), which has the statutory authority, stipulates the salaries of lawmakers. According to RMAFC Chairman Muhammed Bello, each senator’s monthly salary and allowances total N1,063,860.

Adaramodu explained that running costs are not exclusive to the National Assembly and are subject to audit and verification for official use. He highlighted that these funds cover the expenses of maintaining constituency offices and staff, and are neither personal allowances nor salaries.

In response to ongoing criticisms, Adaramodu defended the Senate, stating that it comprises accomplished professionals and leaders dedicated to Nigeria’s progress rather than being motivated by financial gain. He reiterated that the Senate operates within a budgetary allocation of about one percent of the federal budget, with expenditures meticulously accounted for and audited.

Adaramodu concluded by underscoring the Senate’s commitment to national service, urging an end to unfounded allegations regarding lawmakers’ compensation.