The 109 senators in the National Assembly have yet to fulfill their commitment to donate their December 2023 salaries to the victims of the December 3 accidental bombing of Kaduna villagers by the Nigerian Army.
The accidental bombing by troops hunting terrorists claimed the lives of over 100 innocent residents of the Tundun Biri community in the Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State. In the aftermath of the incident, many prominent individuals and government officials pledged monetary donations to ease the pain and loss of the victims.
During a condolence visit to Kaduna in December, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin pledged that the 109 senators would donate their December salary of N1 million, amounting to N109 million, to the victims. However, checks reveal that the senators have yet to fulfill the pledge. Many other individuals who made similar pledges have also not redeemed them.
Senate spokesman Yemi Adaramodu confirmed the delay but emphasized that it was procedural, with the December monthly salaries expected to come in January. He assured that the commitment made by the Senate to the Nigerian people would be fulfilled.
Among others who pledged donations to the victims were the Northern Caucus of the House of Representatives, the Northern States Governors Forum, and the Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani. A committee headed by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, was set up to take inventory of all donations and develop a framework for disbursement.
However, it has been reported that about N140 million has been gathered, but disbursement to the victims is being delayed as many donors, including senators, have yet to redeem their pledges. The committee is working on writing letters to donors to remind them of their pledges.
Security concerns are also delaying disbursement, as the committee is exploring ways to deliver the funds quietly without endangering the victims or the peace effort in the affected village, which has received threats from bandits. The committee plans to liaise with security agencies to enhance safety in the area.
