NEWS EXPRESS is Nigeria’s leading online newspaper. Published by Africa’s international award-winning journalist, Mr. Isaac Umunna, NEWS EXPRESS is Nigeria’s first truly professional online daily newspaper. It is published from Lagos, Nigeria’s economic and media hub, and has a provision for occasional special print editions. Thanks to our vast network of sources and dedicated team of professional journalists and contributors spread across Nigeria and overseas, NEWS EXPRESS has become synonymous with newsbreaks and exclusive stories from around the world.
Chief Peter Ameh, CUPP Secretary
By EMMANUEL OLONIRUHA
The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has advised the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) to reconsider its proposed upward review of salaries of political office holders in the country.
The CUPP Secretary, Chief Peter Ameh, made gave the advice in a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja.
Ameh urged the commission to prioritise the welfare of Nigerians, particularly those in the public service, who, he said, had been neglected for too long.
He said that the coalition shared the concerns of many Nigerians who questioned the necessity and timing of the proposal.
The CUPP chairman wondered the rationale behind prioritising the appetites of public officials over the desperate needs of the masses.
“The proposed 114 per cent salary increase for political office holders is not only unjustifiable but also tone-deaf, considering the economic realities facing our country.
“We believe that political office is a service to the nation, not a means to accumulate wealth.
“The lack of transparency regarding the current earnings of these officials, including substantial allowances and perks, is fueling public skepticism and mistrust.
“Nigerians demand transparency since these earnings are funded by public resources,” he said
Ameh urged government to redirect its focus toward improving the living conditions of public workers, who are the backbone of the country.
“We believe that this is a matter of utmost importance and urgency, and we expect the government to take immediate action to address the concerns of our citizens,” he said. (NAN)