Alake: President Tinubu Rejects Salary Review For Elected Politicians And Judicial Officers

President Tinubu Denies Approval of Salary Review for Political Office Holders and Judicial Officers, Calls News of Increase ‘Fake’

Written By Oshiobugie Omo-Ikirodah

In a statement issued on Thursday, Dele Alake, the Special Adviser to the President on Communications and Strategy, clarified that President Bola Tinubu has not granted approval for a salary review of elected politicians and judicial officers. Alake emphasized that the responsibility for reviewing and adjusting remuneration lies with the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation, and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), and any news of an increase at this time should be regarded as false information.

Earlier, Muhammad Shehu, the Chairman of RMAFC, had announced on Wednesday that salaries for politicians, judicial officers, and public office holders would be increased by 114 percent. Shehu cited the relevant constitutional provision in support of the move, urging the House of Assembly to swiftly amend laws to facilitate the upward adjustment of income packages for these individuals.

However, this announcement sparked criticism from Nigerians, who interpreted it as a raise in politicians’ salaries amidst the economic hardships faced by ordinary citizens. Christian Nwachukwu, the spokesperson of RMAFC, denied that the commission had approved the salary increment, clarifying that the matter was still under review.

Responding to the situation, Alake stated that no such proposal had been presented to the president for consideration. He emphasized that while the RMAFC has the constitutional authority to propose and determine salaries and allowances for political office holders and judicial officers, such changes must be duly considered and approved by the president before taking effect.

Alake expressed concern over the spread of false information, noting the danger it poses to society and national well-being. He urged journalists, media managers, and the public to ignore stories regarding government activities and policy issues that do not originate from officially approved communication channels. Furthermore, Alake highlighted the malicious intent behind the misinformation, suggesting an attempt to undermine the new administration and its progressive policies, which have garnered significant goodwill among Nigerians.