Former Senator Elisha Abbo has stirred public debate by defending the N29 million monthly earnings of Nigerian senators, claiming the amount is not as substantial as it appears. Speaking during an interview on Arise Television, Abbo addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding the salaries and allowances of lawmakers, offering insights into the financial realities faced by members of the National Assembly.
Abbo, who served as a senator from 2019 to 2023, revealed that during his tenure, his official salary was slightly over one million naira, but his total monthly earnings, including various allowances, amounted to N14.4 million. Despite this figure, he argued that the income was not as excessive as many believe, especially when compared to the earnings from his business ventures.
When asked about the current earnings of senators, Abbo disclosed that they now receive N29 million monthly, including allowances. However, he was quick to downplay the significance of this amount, stating, “29 million looks big just on paper. I am saying this as a very honest man.” He emphasized that, in his view, the earnings are not as substantial as they may seem, particularly when considering the financial responsibilities and expectations placed on senators.
Abbo further elaborated on the challenges faced by members of the National Assembly, an institution he described as “vilified.” Reflecting on his five years as a senator, he noted the intense scrutiny and criticism directed at lawmakers, which he believes often overshadows the realities of their work and compensation.
“The National Assembly is an institution so vilified, and I have been a member of that vilified institution for five years,” Abbo remarked, suggesting that public perception of lawmakers’ earnings is often exaggerated.
Addressing concerns about the fairness of such earnings amid widespread economic hardship in Nigeria, Abbo reiterated that the N29 million monthly pay is “not humongous.” He argued that the responsibilities of a senator, coupled with the financial demands of their constituencies and political obligations, justify the earnings.
His comments come at a time when public scrutiny of government spending is at an all-time high, with many Nigerians questioning the disparity between the earnings of political office holders and the average citizen. Abbo’s remarks have sparked further debate on the appropriateness of lawmakers’ compensation, especially in light of the ongoing economic challenges faced by the country.
