…By Dorcas Funmi for TDPel Media.
Outrage Over Proposed Salary Increment
The presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has expressed his strong disapproval of the reported 114% salary increment for political office-holders, judicial officials, and public servants.
These reports had claimed that the Bola Tinubu-led administration proposed the substantial increase in salaries for elected politicians, including the President, vice president, governors, lawmakers, and individuals serving in the judiciary and public offices.
The public reacted with outrage, condemning the action of the new government.
Inappropriate Timing and Call for Cost Reduction
In a tweet posted on Thursday, Peter Obi emphasized that the salary increment was ill-timed, especially considering the prevailing circumstances of millions of Nigerians living in poverty.
He further highlighted the need for the new government to prioritize reducing the cost of governance and addressing the hardships faced by the Nigerian population.
Obi argued that the current situation demanded creative solutions to lift the majority out of poverty, rather than focusing on increasing salaries.
Leaders’ Responsibility and the Priority of the Masses
Quoting from Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, Obi stated that the leaders should prioritize addressing the concerns of the masses and those in lower socioeconomic strata.
He emphasized that the leaders should bear the burden of sacrifice during these challenging times in the nation.
Consequently, he called for the immediate reversal of the salary increment and urged that the savings be directed towards improving education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation, particularly in remote rural areas.
In summary, Peter Obi criticized the alleged 114% salary increase for political and public office holders.
He condemned the timing of the increment, stressing the need for the government to focus on reducing the cost of governance and alleviating the suffering experienced by Nigerians.
Obi emphasized that the leaders should prioritize the welfare of the masses and proposed redirecting the savings towards essential sectors such as education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation.