National Assembly Clarifies N2 Million Allowance for Senators, Says It Is Part of Running Cost

Ilesanmi AdekanbiAugust 16, 2023

1 minute read

The National Assembly has issued a statement to clear the air on the payment of N2 million allowance to each senator at the beginning of their annual vacation.

The statement, signed by the clerk to the National Assembly, Sani Magaji Tambawal, said that the allowance was part of the statutory running cost of each senator’s office as provided for in the 2023 budget.

Tambawal said that the allowance was not a new development, but a standard practice that has been in place for a long time. He said that the senators use the funds to facilitate various activities that enhance their representation, legislative duties and other initiatives that serve the interests of the people.

He also said that the allowance was not a privilege or a largesse, but an entitlement that was approved in the 2023 Appropriation Act as part of the running cost of the office of each senator of the 10th Assembly. He said that the payment was made in accordance with the law and due process.

He urged the public to disregard any mischaracterization or misunderstanding of the issue, and assured them that the National Assembly was committed to transparency and accountability in the management of public funds.

He said that the National Assembly appreciated the continued support and understanding of Nigerians as they work together to uphold the principles of democracy and good governance.