3 months ago
18
By Tom Okpe
The House of Representatives members have resolved to reduce their salaries by 50 per cent for a period of six months as a demonstration of solidarity and shared sacrifice with the Nigerian people, currently experiencing economic challenges and food insecurity.
This followed adoption of an amendment to a motion of urgent public importance, proposed by the Deputy Speaker, Rep Benjamin Kalu, APC, Abia, at plenary on Thursday.
The motion moved by Rep Isiaka Ayokunle from Ogun State was titled; ‘An Appeal To The Proponents of Proposed Nationwide Protest To Maintain Peace, Eschew Violence and Open The Windows For Meaningful Engagements With The Government At All Levels In order To Address Their Issues.’
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The lawmaker prayed that the motion be communicated to relevant stakeholders and the general public, to promote a peaceful and constructive approach to addressing national issues.
But the Deputy Speaker, moved for its amendment, that lawmakers should contribute 50% of their monthly salary of N6O0,000 to assist Nigerians during this challenging period.
He said the salary cut will be used to support Federal Government’s efforts to address rising cost of food items in the country with the view to ameliorating the hardship Nigerians are going through.
Moving the motion, Ayokunle said citizens of Nigeria have the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and protest to address their grievances; “the House presents with a humble plea, a plea for reason, understanding, and unity in the face of adversity.”
He said: “While maintaining peace and engaging in constructive dialogue with the Government is crucial for the resolution of issues facing the nation, be it resolved that this honorable House appeals to the proponents of the proposed nationwide protest in Nigeria to consider a different path, a path of patience, dialogue, and collaboration, prioritise peace and open channels for meaningful engagements with the Government at all levels.
“Be it further resolved that all stakeholders should uphold the principles of democracy, respect human rights, and uphold rule of law in their actions and engagements; we trust that through peaceful engagement and dialogue, we can collectively, work towards building a better and brighter future for Nigeria.
“Aware that it is undeniable that Nigeria is facing significant challenges that have plagued our nation for far too long.
“The issues of insecurity, unemployment, and poverty weigh heavily, on the hearts of every Nigerian. The desire for change, for progress, for a better tomorrow is a sentiment that unites us.
“Further aware that the challenges we face are not unique to Nigeria alone. These are issues that countries across the globe grapple with on a daily basis.
“In a world that is constantly changing and evolving, no nation is immune to the complexities of governance and development. The road to change is not easy, and the journey towards a brighter future is often fraught with obstacles.
“But we must not lose sight of the incremental steps that have been taken, the reforms that have been implemented, and the strides that have been made towards a more prosperous Nigeria.
“Belief that change does not happen overnight. It requires patience, perseverance, and a commitment to working together towards a common goal.”
Ayokunle also said: “While peaceful protest is a fundamental right in a democratic society, it is also important to allow the Government the space and opportunity to consolidate progress that has already been achieved.”
The lawmaker called for constructive dialogue to seek solutions through peaceful means, and stand united as one nation, one people, with a shared vision for a better Nigeria.
“Together, we can overcome the challenges that lie before us. Together, we can build a future that we can all be proud of.
“The House urges you, our fellow Nigerians, to consider broader perspective, to act with wisdom and foresight, and to support efforts towards a more stable, secure, and prosperous Nigeria.
“Let us reason together, let us listen to one another, and let us work hand in hand towards a brighter tomorrow,” he added.
The motion was adopted as amended and referred to the committees on humanitarian affairs, finance and budget for compliance.
English (US) ·