The House of Representatives has announced plans to submit the sum of N704.91 million to President Bola Tinubu for the use of vulnerable Nigerians affected by the economic hardship occasioned by the removal of subsidy from petrol on December 31, 2024.
The fund was raised by the lawmakers who resolved to slash 50 per cent of their salaries for six months to address the challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians.
According to the Speaker of the House, the contributions made by the lawmakers highlight their steadfastness and dedication to addressing the critical needs of Nigerians.
The Speaker also announced that he will lead a delegation of leadership to hand over the money to the president on December 31.
The decision to donate half of their salaries was made in July, following a motion moved by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.
Kalu had pleaded with his colleagues to sacrifice 50 per cent of their salaries for a period of six months, citing the need to address the challenges faced by Nigerians.
The House of Representatives’ gesture is seen as a move to alleviate the suffering of vulnerable Nigerians who will be affected by the removal of subsidy from petrol.
The lawmakers’ decision to donate half of their salaries is also seen as a demonstration of their commitment to the welfare of Nigerians.
The total amount raised by the lawmakers is N704,907,578.82, which will be handed over to the president on December 31. The fund is expected to be used exclusively for the benefit of vulnerable Nigerians.
The House of Representatives’ move has been commended by many Nigerians who see it as a gesture of goodwill and a demonstration of the lawmakers’ commitment to the welfare of Nigerians.
The submission of the fund to the president on December 31 is expected to be a significant step towards alleviating the suffering of vulnerable Nigerians.