ABUJA, Nigeria – Amidst economic hardship and calls for citizens to “endure the hard times,” members of the House of Representatives in Nigeria’s 10th Assembly will receive a total of N54 billion for constituency projects, an increase from the previous Assembly.
Each lawmaker will be allocated N150 million, a 50% increase from the previous N100 million granted for similar projects.
This increase comes at a sensitive time, especially under the ‘Renewed Hope’ initiative of the President Bola Tinubu-led administration.
It also contrasts with recent calls for citizens to brace themselves for difficult economic conditions.
Constituency projects are often a point of contention in Nigerian politics.
Typically, these are developmental initiatives sited within lawmakers’ constituencies and are funded under various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.
While these projects may have the lawmaker’s name attached, they have historically been shrouded in secrecy, fueling ongoing debates about government transparency and allocation of resources.
Speaking anonymously on Friday, August 25, 2023, a lawmaker from the House of Representatives defended the increase: “This is the only opportunity we have to help our constituencies with one or more projects. We usually don’t have power over the real projects. So, this is often a palliative for us to give back to our constituencies.”
The lawmaker added that many of the projects are usually self-funded. “Many of us often use our own money to do all the projects we do for our constituencies,” said the anonymous legislator.
The increase has stirred debate amongst political analysts and members of civil society.
Critics argue that the increment in allowances showcases a widening gap between the political elite and the average citizen, particularly as the nation grapples with economic instability.
“In a time when Nigerians are facing increasing poverty and economic hardship, it’s surprising to see lawmakers allocate such sums for themselves,” said Ayodele Thompson, a political analyst.
“We need a detailed account of how these funds will directly impact the communities they’re intended for.”
The 10th Assembly’s choice to increase the allowance during economic difficulty is likely to keep the issue of transparency and appropriate resource allocation at the forefront of public discourse.
As of now, it remains unclear whether similar changes will be made for Senators.
