ABUJA-The House of Representatives yesterday resolved to assist the federal government with N648 million for six months by cutting down their salaries by 50 per cent to support food sufficiency and address the high cost of food in the country.
But the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and civil society organisations, CSOs, such as ActionAid, Yiaga Africa, in a swift reaction, said the problem was not with the salaries of members of the House of Representatives, but their allowances, suggesting the bogus allowances be slashed by half to make meaningful impact in their support efforts.
The lawmakers also begged Nigerians to exercise more patience with President Bola Tinubu’s administration in addressing the challenges and hardships faced by citizens.
The House further mandated its committees on appropriation, humanitarian affairs, finance and budget to ensure compliance.
The resolutions followed the adoption of a motion moved on the floor of the House by Ibrahim Isiaka (APC- Ogun State) at plenary in Abuja.
Moving the motion, Isiaka said though Nigerians had the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and protest to address their grievances, the House presented with a humble plea for reason, understanding, and unity in the face of adversity.
According to him, maintaining peace and engaging in constructive dialogue with the government is crucial for the resolution of issues facing the nation.
“This honourable House appeals to the proponents of the proposed nationwide protest in Nigeria to consider a different path, a path of patience, dialogue, and collaboration, prioritize peace and open channels for meaningful engagements with the government at all levels.
