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House of Representatives to present the funds to President Tinubu on Dec. 31, targeting relief for vulnerable citizens.

The House of Representatives has announced plans to donate N704.91 million, equivalent to half of their salaries over six months, to provide relief for vulnerable Nigerians affected by the removal of the petrol subsidy. The donation will be presented to President Bola Tinubu on December 31, 2024.

Key Highlights

1. Origins of the Donation:
   • On July 18, 2024, the House passed a motion, led by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, to contribute 50% of their salaries for six months.
   • The move was aimed at alleviating economic challenges caused by subsidy removal and addressing public protests over governance.
2. Speaker’s Address:
   • During Thursday’s plenary, the Speaker praised the members’ commitment:
     

     “About five months ago, we committed to contributing half of our salaries to address the critical needs of the Nigerian people. I am pleased to inform you that, so far, we have contributed N704,907,578.82.”

3. Salary Details:
   • Nigerian lawmakers earn N600,000 monthly as salaries, excluding allowances.
   • The donation reflects the lawmakers’ collective sacrifice over six months.
4. Presentation to Tinubu:
   • On December 31, the Speaker and a delegation will formally hand over the funds to the President for targeted support to the most vulnerable citizens.

Deputy Speaker’s Motion:

Benjamin Kalu, in his July motion, appealed for collective sacrifice, stating:

“This government is doing its best, but one year is not enough to address the challenges of this country. I want to plead with our colleagues to sacrifice 50 percent of our salary for a period of six months.”

Significance of the Donation

1. Economic Relief:
   • The funds aim to provide immediate support to those struggling with the rising cost of living.
2. A Symbolic Gesture:
   • The gesture reflects lawmakers’ acknowledgment of public grievances and their willingness to contribute directly to alleviating hardship.
3. Addressing Criticism:
   • This move comes as the government faces criticism over its economic policies, including the N47.9 trillion 2025 budget, which opposition parties like the PDP have labeled as “anti-people.”

What’s Next?

As the funds are handed over, all eyes will be on how the government allocates and utilizes the donation to ensure transparency and effective relief for Nigeria’s most vulnerable citizens.

Conclusion:

The N704.91 million donation by the House of Representatives underscores the lawmakers’ commitment to addressing the challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians. While symbolic, it also raises questions about broader, sustainable solutions to the country’s ongoing economic woes.