The Nigerian Senate has strongly refuted allegations that Senators receive N21 million monthly in salary and allowances. This response comes in the wake of recent comments made by Senator Kawu Sumaila (NNPP, Kano South) during a BBC Hausa Service interview.
In his interview, aired on Wednesday, Senator Sumaila stated that his total monthly earnings amounted to N21 million. He clarified that his salary alone is under N1 million, which, after deductions, reduces to just over N600,000. However, he noted that the N21 million figure referred to the “running cost” provided to Senators for office operations.
Senate Spokesman Yemi Adaramodu addressed these claims in a statement on Thursday, emphasizing that the term “running cost” is distinct from a Senator’s salary and personal allowances. Adaramodu explained that the salary and allowances of Senators are determined by the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), which has set the total at N1,063,860 per month.
He clarified that the “running cost” is intended to cover expenses related to maintaining constituency offices and staff, and not as a personal salary. Adaramodu stressed that these funds are used for official purposes and are accounted for by relevant officers.
“The running cost is not a personal allowance or salary,” Adaramodu said.
“It is allocated to ensure the effective operation of Senators’ offices and must be properly accounted for.”
He also expressed frustration with the portrayal of Senators as benefiting excessively from public funds. Adaramodu highlighted that the National Assembly’s budget constitutes only about 1% of the federal budget and has remained consistent despite broader financial constraints.
“The Senate is composed of accomplished professionals dedicated to advancing Nigeria’s political and economic development,” Adaramodu added.
“The focus should be on their commitment and contributions, rather than unfounded claims about their compensation.”
