HEDA urges NASS to adopt measures that tackle poverty
By Samuel Ogunsona
The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has urged lawmakers to look beyond salary reduction and find lasting solution to the economic crisis in Nigeria.
HEDA reacting to the House of Representatives members’ reduction of salaries by 50% for six months calls for more actionable measures to address the severe economic challenges faced by Nigerians.
The leading anti corruption group called for prudent management of resources and reduction in the cost of governance.
In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju and made available to Irohinoodua the organization emphasized that lawmakers must focus on comprehensive measures within their constitutional powers to ease the economic burden.
He said, “The rising cost of living is a result of broader economic policies and a lack of accountability from various agencies, arms, tiers of government. While the salary reduction is symbolic, it does not significantly impact the overall Gross Domestic Product or the soaring prices of essential commodities. Nigerians need to see tangible policies and programs resulting in reduced cost of living and improved service delivery,”
According to Suraju, “The salary cut by the House of Representatives is a commendable gesture, but it is far from sufficient in the face of current hardship. The senate, houses of assembly, presidency, governors, and local governments’ are required to equally follow with austere measures in the recurrent account balance sheet of governance. We urge a 50% reduction in these allowances across board, not just for six months, but until the economy shows real improvement.”
HEDA also said, “Implementing the recommendations of the Oronsaye Report, which includes reducing the number of ministries, advisers, and ministers, should be a priority. This holistic approach to reducing the cost of governance is essential for meaningful economic relief.”
