Reps slash salaries by 50% over economic hardship

The House of Representatives has resolved to cut members’ salary by 50 per cent for six months in order to support the Federal Government in providing succour to the citizenry over the current hardship in the country.

The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance by Rep. Ibrahim Isiaka (APC-Ogun) during plenary in Abuja on Thursday, July 18.

In an amendment to the motion, the Deputy Speaker of the House, Benjamin Kalu, pleaded with the lawmakers to cut their salaries by 50% for six months.

This, he said, was to support the government in providing succour to the citizenry over the hardship, and sequel to the August nationwide planned protest.

Presenting his motion, Isiaka said that the citizens of Nigeria had the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and protest to address their grievances.

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He said, “the house presents with a humble plea, a plea for reason, understanding, and unity in the face of adversity.

He said that maintaining peace and engaging in constructive dialogue with the government was crucial for the resolution of issues facing the nation.

He appealed to the proponents of the proposed nationwide protest in Nigeria to consider a different path, a path of patience, dialogue, and collaboration.

He urged them to prioritize peace and open channels for meaningful engagements with the government at all levels.

He further said that all stakeholders should uphold the principles of democracy. respect human rights, and uphold the rule of law in their actions and engagements.

He said: “We trust that through peaceful engagement and dialogue, we can collectively work towards building a better and brighter future for Nigeria.”

According to him, it is undeniable that Nigeria is facing significant challenges, challenges that have plagued our nation for far too long.

“The issues of insecurity, unemployment, and poverty weigh heavily on the hearts of every Nigerian. The desire for change, for progress, for a better tomorrow is a sentiment that unites us all.”

He said that the current challenges were not unique to Nigeria alone, adding that they were issues that countries across the globe grapple with on a daily basis.

He urged the proponent of the planned protest to engage in constructive dialogue, and seek solutions through peaceful means.

The House said that the motion would be communicated to all relevant stakeholders and the general public to promote a peaceful and constructive approach to addressing our national issues.

The Star