Founding National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Chekwas Okorie, has strongly criticized any proposed increase in the salaries of political office holders, describing such moves as insensitive and potentially dangerous in the current economic climate.
Speaking on Wednesday, Okorie warned that raising politicians' pay could trigger widespread public anger at a time when many Nigerians are struggling with severe economic hardships.
His comments come in response to a proposal by the Revenue Mobilization, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) for an upward review of emoluments for political leaders across the country.
"What RMAFC is saying is that, as a commission, it is insensitive to the feelings of Nigerians who are bearing the brunt of the policy choices of politicians," Okorie stated.
"The hunger and anger in the land is seen and felt by almost everyone. They should not be talking about increasing the pay of political office holders; in fact, they should be talking about a downward review," he emphasized.
The APGA founding chairman pointed out that Nigerians are already reeling under economic hardship brought about by policy decisions made by those in power, and raising politicians' salaries at this time would amount to mocking the suffering of citizens.
This criticism comes amid growing concerns about the widening gap between political elites and ordinary citizens, with many Nigerians facing rising costs of living, fuel price increases, and currency devaluation.
Political analysts note that the timing of RMAFC's proposal could not be worse, as it coincides with widespread economic challenges that have pushed many households below the poverty line.
The RMAFC has yet to respond to Okorie's criticism or clarify the details of their proposed salary review for political officeholders.
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