Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has strongly criticized the plan to raise salaries for politicians in Nigeria. The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) is reportedly pushing for a pay increase for political leaders, but Obi questioned both the timing and the reasoning behind it.

In a statement on his official X handle, the former Anambra governor described the move as insensitive and greedy, especially at a time when ordinary Nigerians are facing worsening economic conditions. He called it a shameless attempt by leaders to enrich themselves while the majority continues to struggle.

Obi argued that political office should be about service, not personal gain. He said the RMAFC’s decision to focus on rewarding politicians instead of addressing the needs of neglected public workers, particularly underpaid and overworked police officers, was provocative and scandalous.

Nigerians have voiced strong opposition to plans that would raise the salaries of President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and other top officials, sparking widespread debate across the country.

The proposed increase, under review by the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), comes as many citizens face economic challenges, including high inflation and rising living costs. RMAFC Chairman Mohammed Shehu argued that the current salaries, unchanged since 2008, do not reflect the growing responsibilities of these political offices. He noted that the President earns ₦1.5 million monthly while ministers make less than ₦1 million, calling these figures “insufficient” given the scope of their duties.

Despite this justification, the move has drawn sharp criticism from the public. Many Nigerians see the proposal as insensitive, highlighting the struggles of ordinary citizens who contend with low wages and difficult living conditions. Labor unions, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), have described the pay hike as unfair and mistimed, insisting that government attention should prioritize the welfare of the general population rather than increasing the earnings of leaders already in power.

The debate continues as RMAFC evaluates the salary structure. While some argue that political leaders deserve higher pay for their roles, the prevailing sentiment is that any increase should be postponed until the economic situation improves and the needs of everyday Nigerians are addressed.

The Lagos State chairperson of the Labour Party, Dayo Ekong, has warned that the political influence of the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, appears to be waning, urging him to pause and reflect.

In a statement shared on her official X account on Tuesday, Ekong noted that Obi’s rise in 2023 was fueled not only by his personal appeal but also by strong party structures, grassroots support, and Nigerians’ desire for change. She argued that the “grace” that carried him then is fading due to divisive decisions and inconsistent political moves.

“In 2023, Nigerians rallied behind him because he represented a fresh alternative. But today, his actions are beginning to weaken that support,” Ekong said. She also pointed to the 2024 Edo governorship election, where Obi backed LP candidate Olumide Akpata despite opposition from party leaders, as an example of choices that risk eroding his political standing.