Published: August 25, 2025
By: Chinedu Okafor, Politics & Governance Correspondent – SaharaNews247
A Brewing Political Storm
A fresh wave of controversy has hit Nigeria’s political space following a proposal by the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) to increase the salaries of the President, Vice-President, governors, ministers, and other top office holders.
While the Commission argues that some pay levels have remained stagnant for years and require adjustment, the move has provoked intense backlash from labour unions, civil-society groups, and opposition figures. Among the most vocal critics are the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), an aide to former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, and human rights activist Nkereuwem Akpan.
Their argument is straightforward: any pay increase for politicians in today’s Nigeria is not only ill-timed but also insensitive, given the economic hardship millions of citizens face.
The RMAFC Proposal
The RMAFC disclosed on August 18, 2025, that it had initiated an upward review of political office holders’ remuneration. According to the Commission, the review is aimed at ensuring salaries are “fair, realistic, and sustainable.”
By law, RMAFC is empowered to review and recommend the remuneration of political and public office holders. However, its recommendations do not automatically take effect. They require the endorsement of the Presidency and the National Assembly before implementation.
The Rejection and Outcry
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) immediately rejected the proposal. President of the NLC, Joe Ajaero, described the move as “insensitive and unjust,” warning that it would widen the gap between political elites and ordinary workers. He further cautioned that approving such a raise could ignite mass protests.
Atiku Abubakar’s aide also condemned the proposed salary hike, labeling it as a “self-serving” decision that fails to reflect the reality of Nigerians grappling with inflation, job losses, and wage stagnation.
Activist Nkereuwem Akpan added his voice, calling the proposal a “misplaced priority” at a time when many Nigerians cannot afford basic necessities.
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) also issued a strong statement, urging President Bola Tinubu to suspend the proposal within seven days. SERAP described the planned pay rise as “patently unlawful and unconstitutional,” and warned that the move could be challenged in court.
Opposition parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), joined the chorus of rejection, insisting that any attempt to raise political salaries while ordinary citizens suffer amounts to betrayal.
Why This Matters
The controversy goes beyond the numbers. Even if the fiscal cost of higher salaries for top officials is relatively small compared to Nigeria’s overall budget, the symbolism is powerful. Approving a pay raise for politicians during a period of hardship risks fueling public anger, undermining trust in government, and strengthening opposition narratives against the ruling administration.
For labour unions and civil society, this is about justice and priorities. They argue that resources should be directed toward resolving workers’ wage disputes, funding social safety nets, and addressing inflation rather than padding the pockets of already well-compensated leaders.
The Legal Dimension
While RMAFC has the mandate to propose salary reviews, the Commission cannot enforce them. Its recommendations must pass through the National Assembly and require executive approval. Civil-society groups like SERAP are preparing to challenge the proposal legally, insisting that it violates constitutional principles of fairness and economic justice.
This sets up a potential legal battle that could stall or even overturn the proposal, depending on how the courts interpret RMAFC’s powers and obligations.
What Lies Ahead
The Presidency faces a difficult decision. It can either distance itself from the proposal and urge RMAFC to suspend its review, or it can push forward and risk escalating public backlash.
The NLC has hinted at possible protests if the government proceeds, while SERAP’s ultimatum suggests litigation may follow. For many Nigerians, this debate is a litmus test of government priorities: will leaders put citizens first or continue the perception of elite privilege?
Conclusion
The rejection of RMAFC’s proposed salary increase by the NLC, Atiku’s aide, Nkereuwem Akpan, SERAP, and opposition parties underscores a deep disconnect between government actions and public expectations. In an era of economic strain, the optics of politicians seeking higher pay may prove more damaging than the policy itself.
For President Tinubu and the National Assembly, the message is clear: without transparency, consultation, and genuine prioritisation of citizens’ welfare, this proposal risks becoming a flashpoint for national discontent.
Author Bio
Chinedu Okafor is a Politics and Governance Correspondent with SaharaNews247. He covers policy, labour, and economic justice issues across Nigeria, with a focus on accountability and citizen welfare. His work combines fact-based reporting with in-depth analysis of governance and democracy.
