As Nigeria grapples with economic hardship, the revelation by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North, that he earns a total of N14 million monthly as a lawmaker has reignited public discourse about the disparity between the ruling class and the masses.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday, Kalu sought to downplay the perception that Nigerian lawmakers are living in affluence while ordinary citizens face economic struggles.
“I earn N14 million for everything in a month. That is everything encompassing, the overhead, the worker’s salary, everybody,” Kalu explained.
His statement was meant to clarify the breakdown of his income, yet it highlights a stark contrast in the daily realities of ordinary Nigerians who are battling escalating living costs, driven by inflation, fuel price hikes, and dwindling purchasing power.
The reality of Nigeria’s economic hardship
For millions of Nigerians, Senator Kalu’s monthly earnings of N14 million underscore the widening economic gap between the political class and the average citizen. Following the removal of fuel subsidies and currency devaluation under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, Nigerians are facing unprecedented economic challenges. Food prices have soared, transportation costs have more than tripled, and energy bills have become almost unaffordable. The sharp increase in the price of petrol, which is now above ₦1000 per liter, has crippled many households and small businesses alike, reducing disposable income and forcing families to make tough choices between basic necessities.
Senator Kalu attempted to position his salary as insufficient to meet the demands of his duties. He cited rising costs, explaining that the N14 million barely covers his office expenses, workers’ salaries, and even travel to his constituency.
“The N14 million is not enough to buy petrol to travel to my constituency,” Kalu said, a claim that may further alienate Nigerians who are struggling to afford even a fraction of that sum for their daily commute.
Perception of lawmakers’ privileges
One of the most persistent criticisms of Nigeria’s lawmakers is the perception that they live in luxury at the expense of taxpayers, with reports of extravagant allowances and official perks. The provision of luxury vehicles to lawmakers is a key issue that often sparks public outrage. However, Kalu refuted the claim, stating that “no lawmaker is given any vehicle,” clarifying that vehicles are only provided to committees in the National Assembly for official duties.
While the Senator’s remarks might be aimed at dispelling myths about legislators’ affluence, they have done little to address the larger issue at hand—the glaring economic disparity. The perception that lawmakers are detached from the struggles of ordinary Nigerians persists, as the scale of their income and privileges seems out of touch with the lived experiences of the majority.
The global economic impact and local realities
In his defense, Senator Kalu attributed Nigeria’s current economic woes to the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. He argued that the global health crisis severely disrupted economies worldwide, and only nations with long-established economic resilience have managed to bounce back fully. However, while it is true that the pandemic took a toll on global economies, Nigeria’s fragile economic foundation and systemic governance challenges have exacerbated the impact on its people.
Kalu acknowledged that President Tinubu is aware of the nation’s economic instability and the struggles faced by everyday Nigerians. “The president himself knows that Nigerians are suffering and hungry. He is a street person; he knows the street very well,” Kalu stated. Yet, many Nigerians feel that the government’s response to their suffering has been slow or inadequate, especially as inflation and unemployment continue to rise. While the president may be aware of the challenges, the question remains: are the measures being taken enough to alleviate the crisis?
Bridging the Gap: the need for more responsive leadership
As Nigeria faces one of its most difficult economic periods in recent history, the disconnect between the political elite and the citizens seems more pronounced. While lawmakers like Senator Kalu justify their earnings as necessary for fulfilling their responsibilities, the average Nigerian is left questioning whether the government is truly empathetic to their plight. The revelation of a senator’s monthly earnings will likely fuel further calls for accountability and transparency in governance, especially in a time when millions are struggling to make ends meet.
Ultimately, addressing the economic hardship in Nigeria will require more than just recognition of the problem—it will demand swift and decisive action from leaders who understand the depth of the crisis. Whether through policy reforms, economic stimulus, or targeted relief for the most vulnerable, the government must find ways to bridge the growing gap between the ruling class and the people it serves.
In the face of these hardships, Nigerians are looking for more than words—they are seeking concrete steps toward alleviating their suffering. Senator Kalu’s remarks, while shedding light on his earnings, do little to provide solace to the millions who face daily economic challenges.
The call for a more equitable and responsive leadership has never been louder.