Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has strongly criticized the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission’s proposal to increase political office holders’ salaries by over 100 percent, describing the move as insensitive and driven by greed.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) Wednesday, Obi condemned what he termed a “shameless grab for more” that prioritizes politicians’ desires over the desperate needs of ordinary Nigerians facing deteriorating living standards.
The former Anambra State governor expressed outrage at the timing and necessity of the proposed salary increases, arguing that they demonstrate a shocking disconnect between political leaders and the economic realities confronting the nation.
“The recent proposal by the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission to increase the salaries of political leaders is causing widespread anger and bitterness among Nigerians,” Obi stated, adding that he shares the concerns of citizens questioning the proposal’s justification.
He characterized the RMAFC’s approach as “reckless haste in prioritising the greed of Politicians over the desperate needs of the masses,” calling it both provocative and scandalous given Nigeria’s current economic challenges.
The Labour Party chieftain emphasized his belief that political office should represent service to the nation rather than an opportunity for wealth accumulation, suggesting that the proposed increases fundamentally misunderstand the purpose of public service.
Obi particularly criticized the commission’s priorities, noting the disturbing contrast between proposed politician pay raises and the continued underpayment of security personnel. He highlighted the plight of police officers who remain “grossly underpaid and overworked” despite their critical role in national security.
“It is very disturbing that the RMAFC is prioritising the welfare of political office holders over that of security personnel,” he observed, calling attention to the skewed priorities in government compensation policy.
The former presidential candidate urged the government to redirect its focus toward improving conditions for public workers, whom he described as the backbone of the country. His statement reflects broader public sentiment against the salary increase proposal amid widespread economic hardship.
The RMAFC proposal has generated significant controversy since its announcement, with various stakeholders, including the Nigeria Labour Congress, opposing the planned increases. Critics argue that raising politicians’ salaries while ordinary Nigerians struggle with inflation and unemployment sends the wrong message about government priorities.
Obi’s intervention adds political weight to the growing opposition against the salary review, particularly given his prominence as a major opposition figure and his focus on economic issues during the 2023 presidential campaign.
The debate over political office holders’ compensation continues to highlight tensions between public expectations of leadership sacrifice during difficult times and arguments about appropriate remuneration for government officials.
