[ad_1]
In an effort to alleviate some of the economic hardship that is prevailing across the country, members of the House of Representatives have decided to cut their salaries in half.
The resolution was passed by the House of Commons in plenary session on Thursday after passing a motion of urgent public importance.
The motion is titled: “Calling on supporters of protests across the country to maintain peace, refrain from violence and open the door to meaningful engagement with all levels of government to address their concerns.”
The event was sponsored by Ibrahim Isiaka from Ogun State.
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who mooted the amendment, noted that lawmakers earn N500,000 a month, so it is a worthwhile sacrifice for the next six months.
However, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, corrected him by saying they receive N600,000 per month.
While moving the motion, Isiaka said the youths were planning to hold protests across the country to protest against the country’s economic difficulties.
The lawmaker said that while protesting was a constitutional right, young people should be patient with the government.
He said maintaining peace and engaging in constructive dialogue with the government was crucial to resolving the issue.
His words: “This House calls on supporters of protests across Nigeria to consider a different path, one of patience, dialogue and collaboration that prioritises peace and opens channels for meaningful engagement with all levels of government.
“Further Decides that all stakeholders shall uphold democratic principles, respect for human rights and the rule of law in their actions and participation.
“We believe that through peaceful engagement and dialogue, we can work together to build a better and brighter future for Nigeria.
“It is undeniable that Nigeria is facing major challenges that have plagued our country for too long. Issues of insecurity, unemployment and poverty weigh heavily on the mind of every Nigerian. The desire for change, progress and a better tomorrow is a sentiment that unites us all.
Also read: Tinubu appoints Didi Esther Walson-Jack as service chief
“The challenges we face are not unique to Nigeria. These are issues that countries around the globe grapple with every day. In this ever-changing and evolving world, no country is immune to the complexities of governance and development.
“The path to change is not easy, and the journey to a brighter future is often filled with obstacles.
“But we cannot lose sight of the progressive steps Nigeria has taken, the reforms that have been implemented and the progress made towards a more prosperous Nigeria.
“This kind of change doesn’t happen overnight. It requires patience, perseverance and a commitment to working together towards a common goal.
“While peaceful protest is a fundamental right in a democratic society, it is also important to give the government the space and opportunity to consolidate the progress that has been made.
“Let us engage in constructive dialogue, let us seek solutions through peaceful means, let us unite as one nation, one people, to work together for a better Nigeria.
“Together, we can overcome the challenges before us. Together, we can create a future we can be proud of.”
Kalu said the country’s problems did not arise overnight and a year was not enough for the current government to resolve the challenges.
He said holding signs to protest economic hardship would not solve the problem.
“Holding placards is not going to solve the problem,” he said.
Ahmed Jha from Borno state also said it would take “a reasonable amount of time” to resolve the country’s problems.
“Tough times don’t last forever, but tough people do.
“We are calling on young people to have faith in the government,” he said.
Jha said despite the economic difficulties, goods in Nigeria are cheaper than in most African countries.
“If you compare the cost of living in West Africa, you will understand the cost of living in Nigeria,” he said.
When Speaker Abbas put the motion to a voice vote, there were more votes against than in favor, but the Speaker said “the yes vote won.”
Abbas referred the motion to the Appropriations Committee, the Finance Committee, the National Planning Committee and the Humanitarian Affairs Committee for further legislative action.
[ad_2]
Source link
