The Nigerian Senate has strongly refuted recent allegations claiming that it determines its own salaries and allowances or receives special financial packages from the Presidency. The upper legislative chamber came under scrutiny following a visit to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, sparking widespread controversy.
Senate's
Official Response
In
a statement released on Sunday, Senate Spokesman Yemi Adaramodu addressed the
allegations, categorically denying any claims that the 10th Senate has received
financial patronage from the Presidency. He emphasized that the Senate's
remuneration is determined by the Revenue Mobilisation Fiscal Allocation
Commission (RMFAC) in strict accordance with constitutional guidelines.
"The
salaries and allowances paid to Senators have always been allocated by the
RMFAC, following the provisions of the constitution. This information has
consistently been in the public domain," Adaramodu stated.
Clarification
on Constituency Projects
Adaramodu
also addressed the ongoing public discourse surrounding constituency projects,
clarifying that these projects are not exclusively determined by Senators.
Instead, Senators merely suggest and nominate projects, a practice that is
common in democracies around the world.
"The
Executive arm of government, through its various Ministries and agencies, is
responsible for awarding contracts for constituency projects. The funds
allocated for these projects vary depending on the number of constituencies in
each state, ensuring that every region of Nigeria benefits from federal resources,"
he explained.
Challenge
to Critics
The
Senate challenged anyone with evidence to the contrary to come forward,
insisting that the notion that Senators determine their own salaries is
entirely false. The statement sought to reassure the public that the Senate
operates transparently and within the bounds of the law.
Commitment
to Nigeria’s Growth
As
Nigeria enters what some describe as a "season of political
pontificating," Adaramodu assured the public that the 10th Assembly
remains a "responsible and responsive chamber." The Senate reaffirmed
its commitment to the economic growth and development of Nigeria, reiterating
that it only receives what is constitutionally allocated and would never seek
additional perks from other branches of government.
Key Points:
- Refuted
Allegations: The Nigerian Senate denies
determining its own salaries and allowances or receiving special packages
from the Presidency.
- RMFAC's
Role: Senate remuneration is allocated by
the Revenue Mobilisation Fiscal Allocation Commission, following
constitutional provisions.
- Clarification
on Projects: Senators suggest constituency
projects, but the Executive arm awards contracts and manages funds.
- Challenge
to Evidence: The Senate invites anyone with
contrary evidence to come forward, reinforcing its commitment to
transparency.
- Commitment
to Nigeria: The 10th Assembly pledges to remain
responsible and focused on Nigeria's economic growth.
Stay updated with Naija Newshawk for the latest news and insights on Nigeria's legislative activities and governance.
No comments:
Post a Comment