In a stunning revelation that has ignited public outrage, it has come to light that the President of Nigeria, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, and other governors collectively received a staggering sum of nearly N1 billion as hardship allowance over an eight-year period.
These revelations, based on findings by the reputable media outlet The PUNCH, have further highlighted the stark disparity between the country’s leadership and its struggling populace, News About Nigeria reports.
According to documents obtained from the Revenue Mobilisation and Fiscal Allocation Commission, the President is entitled to an annual hardship allowance of N1.76 million.
Extrapolating this figure over eight years, Buhari’s accumulated hardship allowance amounts to a staggering N14.08 million. Similarly, the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, is entitled to an annual allowance of N1.52 million, totaling N12.16 million over the same period.
While these figures alone are cause for concern, it is essential to recognize that this disparity extends beyond the highest office in the land.
State governors and their deputies are also beneficiaries of this allowance. A state governor is entitled to an annual hardship allowance of N1.11 million, while their deputies receive N1.06 million. Consequently, the combined hardship allowances of the 36 state governors and their deputies reach an eye-watering sum of N624.96 million.
The revelation of such exorbitant allowances enjoyed by the country’s leaders has understandably sparked anger and resentment among the Nigerian population.
Many argue that while the ruling elite relishes the luxuries provided by these allowances, ordinary citizens continue to face significant economic hardships.
The prevailing high inflation rates, coupled with job losses and an inadequate social safety net, have contributed to the deteriorating living conditions experienced by the majority of Nigerians.
The timing of this revelation is particularly significant, as President Buhari’s tenure draws to a close. Labor unions and civil society organizations have taken the opportunity to criticize the outgoing regime for its perceived failure to address the challenges faced by Nigerian workers.
The Nigeria Labour Congress and other unions have voiced concerns over the alarming rise in poverty rates, increasing job losses, and inadequate attention to citizens’ welfare.
As the country grapples with these pressing issues, the need for effective and transparent governance becomes more apparent than ever.
It is crucial for the incoming administration to prioritize the well-being and prosperity of all citizens, and to bridge the growing gap between the ruling elite and the people they are meant to serve.
