Act of Greed and Insensitivity’ – Peter Obi Condemns Proposed Pay Rise for Politicians

Former Anambra State governor and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has criticized the reported plan to increase the salaries of political leaders in Nigeria.

The proposal, allegedly put forward by the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), has drawn widespread backlash as citizens grapple with rising costs of living and economic hardship. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

Reacting via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Obi described the move as “provocative, scandalous, and a shameless grab for more at the expense of struggling Nigerians.”

“The RMAFC’s reckless haste in prioritising the greed of politicians over the desperate needs of the masses is not only provocative but scandalous. The proposed over 100% salary increase for political office holders is totally unjustifiable considering the economic realities facing our country,” Obi wrote.

He urged the commission to focus on improving the welfare of ordinary Nigerians, especially public service workers and security personnel, many of whom remain underpaid despite their crucial roles.

“Political office is a service to the nation, not a means to accumulate wealth. It is disturbing that RMAFC is prioritising the welfare of political office holders over that of security officers, particularly the police who are grossly underpaid and overworked,” he added.

Obi’s remarks have fueled growing calls for transparency and equity in Nigeria’s remuneration structure, as citizens question the government’s spending priorities amid economic strain.