Former Abia State Governor and current Senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, has opened up about his monthly income as a Nigerian Senator, stating that it amounts to N14 million.

Kalu shared this information during an interview on Channels Television, shedding light on the misconceptions some Nigerians hold about the luxurious lifestyle they believe federal lawmakers lead.

According to him, the notion that senators are living lavishly while many citizens struggle in poverty is not accurate.

In Nigeria, there has long been confusion regarding how much federal lawmakers earn.

Various claims have surfaced, with some legislators reportedly stating that their monthly income reaches up to N21 million.

However, Kalu clarified that his total earnings, which include the entire package for his duties as a senator, stand at N14 million.

This sum, he explained, covers overhead costs, staff salaries, and other expenses associated with his office.

Kalu also elaborated on how insufficient the N14 million is for his responsibilities.

He mentioned that this amount barely suffices to maintain his constituency office, pay for petrol required for travelling to and from his constituency, and manage other financial obligations related to serving his people.

He made it clear that managing these costs can be challenging, especially given the expectation that lawmakers should be constantly available for their constituents and provide support where necessary.

The debate surrounding the earnings of federal lawmakers in Nigeria continues, with many citizens feeling disconnected from the political elite.

However, Kalu’s statement brings attention to the pressures that come with public office and the financial burdens lawmakers may face behind the scenes.

Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party and a renowned advocate for transparency and good governance, has raised concerns about the prolonged absence of both the President and Vice President from Nigeria, especially at a time when the nation is grappling with severe economic challenges.

Speaking in response to media reports detailing their international travels, Obi questioned the leadership’s priorities, particularly given the depth of the domestic issues affecting millions of Nigerians.

In his statement, Obi emphasized that while some might argue that there is no vacancy in the Presidency despite both leaders being out of the country, it remains troubling for a nation facing a multitude of crises.

He noted that the President had initially informed the public that he would be away for only 14 days, a period that has now elapsed.

With the country still waiting for his return, Obi argued that a leader of a troubled nation like Nigeria should prioritize the welfare of the people and return earlier than planned, considering the pressing volume of work that requires urgent attention.

Obi further highlighted the unimaginable hardship Nigerians are enduring due to some policies implemented by the current administration.

He pointed out that the policies have led to unprecedented levels of suffering and poverty across the nation, a situation that demands the immediate focus of the President.

“We need his urgent attention to pilot the nation out of this present situation,” Obi remarked.

One of the most concerning aspects of the President’s recent absence, according to Obi, was the decision to send the Vice President to Sweden for a two-day working visit, while the President himself was in Paris, France.

Obi argued that Paris, which is only 833 nautical miles from Stockholm, would have allowed the President to make a brief detour to attend the event in Sweden, saving valuable time and national resources.

Instead, the Vice President had to travel a much longer distance—3055 nautical miles from Abuja to Stockholm, a journey of over nine hours.

Obi expressed his dismay, noting that this decision resulted in far more travel time and expense than if the President had simply attended the meeting himself while in Europe.

“This does not represent the kind of fiscal responsibility and common sense that is expected of leaders whose people are facing severe hunger and poverty,” Obi stated.

He emphasized the importance of making decisions that reflect true leadership, especially during times of crisis.

For Obi, this is a moment for the nation’s leaders to demonstrate their commitment to alleviating the suffering of Nigerians by managing the country’s limited resources with efficiency and care.

As the country continues to navigate economic challenges, many Nigerians, particularly those living in poverty, are hoping for a stronger, more engaged leadership.

Obi’s comments resonate with a significant portion of the population, who feel the current administration has not done enough to address the deepening economic woes.

His call for prioritizing the well-being of the people through more responsible governance reflects the growing sentiment among citizens that the nation needs leadership that will put their needs first.

With his slogan “A New Nigeria is Possible,” Peter Obi continues to inspire hope for a future where government actions are more in tune with the realities faced by ordinary Nigerians.

As he champions the need for fiscal discipline and compassionate leadership, Obi’s message strikes a chord with many who feel the country is at a crossroads and in desperate need of change.

A prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dele Momodu, has voiced his skepticism regarding the ability of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to significantly improve the lives of struggling Nigerians.

Dele Momodu, a well-known journalist and former presidential candidate, shared his concerns during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today where he discussed the nation’s economic situation and the government’s promises to bring about positive changes.

Momodu expressed his doubts about the likelihood of the current government achieving meaningful progress, pointing out that he does not see any clear path forward for Nigeria.

Despite the ongoing assurances from the administration, particularly from the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Atiku Bagudu, who recently emphasized that the federal government was working tirelessly to improve living conditions for Nigerians, Momodu remains unconvinced.

Bagudu had previously stated that efforts were being made to shift the country’s economic trajectory and improve the well-being of its citizens.

However, Momodu, having experienced various administrations and their promises, expressed little faith in the promises of this government.

He reflected on the many political speeches he has heard over the years, claiming that promises to transform the country have often led to disappointment.

He remarked that while he hopes for Nigeria to prosper, his experience has left him doubtful that any substantial progress will be made under the current leadership.

In his words, “I’ve been in this country long enough and heard numerous politicians make sweet promises. But, so far, I don’t see any indication of the promised light at the end of the tunnel.”

Momodu also pointed out that if the administration manages to successfully implement their plans, Nigerians would give them the recognition they deserve.

However, he warned that failure would lead to criticism similar to what former President Muhammadu Buhari now faces, as the new administration is blamed for its shortcomings.

He further noted that the individuals currently advising and working closely with Tinubu do not seem prepared for the substantial changes needed to address Nigeria’s pressing challenges.

He lamented, “I doubt much will come out of this because even those around the President appear ill-prepared for the necessary changes.”

Momodu’s critique highlights the widespread frustration many Nigerians feel regarding the country’s leadership and the seemingly endless cycle of promises with little visible progress.

Although he wishes for positive outcomes, his remarks reflect a broader sentiment of resignation among citizens who have witnessed repeated disappointments from past and present administrations.

While the government has assured the public of its commitment to improving the nation’s economy, many remain skeptical, especially as living conditions continue to deteriorate for the average Nigerian.