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22/06/2023

Does Tinubu Even Have a Conscience?

At a time Peter Obi is calling for cutting down governance, Tinubu is increasing his salary to 114%.

Recently, the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation & Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) approved a 114% salary increment for the President, Vice President, Governors, and other elective positions in Nigeria including the judiciary. This move has been met with criticism and outrage from many Nigerians, especially at a time when the country's economy is facing significant challenges.

With the current exchange rate of almost 1000 naira to 1 dollar, the removal of oil subsidy, and plans to increase electricity tariffs to 40% without any consideration to increasing the minimum wage for civil servants while many Nigerians are struggling to make ends meet. The cost of living has increased, and the purchasing power of the naira has significantly decreased. In this context, the salary increment for politicians is seen as insensitive, unjustified, and a slap on the civil servants and entire Nigerians who are suffering daily.

One of the politicians who have been at the forefront of this salary increment is President Tinubu who is barely 1 month in office. Some Nigerians have criticized him for increasing politicians' salaries while the country is going through tough economic times. They argue that this move is a clear indication of the government's misplaced priorities and a lack of empathy for the plight of ordinary Nigerians. A situation that makes me ask if Tinubu has a conscience.

On the other hand, some politicians like Peter Obi, former Governor of Anambra State and the candidate of the Labour Party in the February 25th presidential election, have been advocating for cost-cutting measures to fix the economy. Obi has been vocal about the need to reduce government spending, especially on frivolous expenses such as foreign trips, large encourages, and flamboyant allowances paid to public office holders. He believes that the government should prioritize investing in education, healthcare, and infrastructure to create jobs and improve the standard of living for Nigerians.

If President Tinubu were to be interrogated about the salary increment, he might argue that it is necessary to attract and retain competent individuals in elective positions. He might also argue that the increment is in line with the RMAFC's mandate to review and recommend salaries for public officeholders. However, critics might counter that the increment is excessive and comes at a time when many Nigerians are struggling to make ends meet. To me, it proves the insensitivity and greed of Tinubu and his nonchalant character to common Nigerians with a clear indication of how severely he will rule Nigeria and Nigerians. This action will also enlighten the NLC and TUC on their position in this country under the reign of Tinubu.

In summary, the 114% salary increment for politicians in Nigeria has sparked controversy and outrage among many Nigerians. While some politicians like Peter Obi are advocating for cost-cutting measures to fix the economy, others like President Tinubu are increasing politicians' salaries without solving the civil service minimum wages that have lingered for years.

© Ezeani Chidubem Modest Mayor