The senator representing Kano South, Kawu Sumaila, has urged Nigerians to support his advocacy for the public disclosure of the statutory entitlements and other benefits enjoyed by members and presiding officers of the National Assembly.
Mr. Sumaila, in a statement to DAILY NIGERIAN on Sunday, expressed concerns over the psychological distress caused by Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s recent public disclosure of their holiday allowance.
The senator called on critical stakeholders to unite and demand the public disclosure of remuneration, operational costs, budget allocation to the office of presiding officers, vehicle expenses, and other benefits.
Mr. Sumaila emphasized that such action would enhance the effectiveness of the legislative arm’s oversight function and ensure the legislators are taken seriously.
In his statement, he said: “As we recover from the psychological distress caused by the disclosure of our disputed holiday allowance by the president of the senate during the plenary session on August 7, 2023, some of us remain steadfast in advancing the Senate President’s initiative to reveal the National Assembly’s financial affairs to the general public. As a result, we sincerely urge all stakeholders to join forces with us.”
He added, “The most practical approach for Nigeria to take us seriously entails subjecting ourselves to public scrutiny.
“We have an obligation to address several inquiries, starting with our remuneration, the operational costs of our offices, the expenses related to our vehicles, and the budget allocation for the Office of the Presiding and principal officers, along with their supporting staff and associated vehicles.
“Undertaking this action will considerably enhance the effectiveness of our oversight function.”
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