The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has reacted to the Federal House of Representatives members’ decision to reduce their salaries by 50% for six months. While acknowledging this as a step in the right direction, the civil society organization calls for more substantial actions from all political office holders and lawmakers to address the severe economic challenges faced by Nigerians through prudent management of resource and reduction in the cost of governance.
In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the organization emphasized that lawmakers must focus on comprehensive measures within their constitutional powers to ease the economic burden on Nigerians.
He said, “The rising cost of living is a result of broader economic policies and a lack of accountability from various agencies, arms, tiers of government. While the salary reduction is symbolic, it does not significantly impact the overall Gross Domestic Product or the soaring prices of essential commodities. Nigerians need to see tangible policies and programs resulting in reduced cost of living and improved service delivery,”
According to Suraju, “The salary cut by the House of Representatives is a commendable gesture, but it is far from sufficient in the face of current hardship. The senate, houses of assembly, presidency, governors, and local governments’ are required to equally follow with austere measures in the recurrent account balance sheet of governance. We urge a 50% reduction in these allowances across board, not just for six months, but until the economy shows real improvement.”
HEDA also said, “Implementing the recommendations of the Oronsaye Report, which includes reducing the number of ministries, advisers, and ministers, should be a priority. This holistic approach to reducing the cost of governance is essential for meaningful economic relief.”
The civil group stressed the need for lawmakers to use their constitutional powers to adopt more impact measures that go beyond salary reductions. HEDA remains committed to advocating for good governance, accountability, and transparency to ensure sustainable development in Nigeria.