Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele has made it clear that federal lawmakers do not decide their own salaries and allowances.

He explained that the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) is responsible for fixing these payments for members of the National Assembly. This statement came in response to public concerns and a recent court ruling on spending by the legislature.

Bamidele was reacting to the Federal High Court judgment that declared the National Assembly’s N110 billion scheme for luxury SUVs and allowances unlawful. He defended the current system, saying resources provided for official vehicles and other entitlements help lawmakers carry out their duties, especially in their constituencies. According to him, many Nigerians hold wrong ideas because they do not understand how these payments are determined.

The senator stressed that lawmakers have no power to set their own remunerations. He called for more openness about the salaries and benefits of public officials so that people can have better understanding. This, he believes, will reduce misconceptions and build more trust between leaders and citizens.

This clarification comes at a time when many Nigerians are unhappy about the high cost of living and government spending. The court ruling had earlier ordered Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas to ensure future spending follows proper rules and serves the public interest.

Bamidele’s comments highlight the need for better communication on how public funds are used. As debates continue on lawmakers’ entitlements, many hope for more transparency and accountability. This issue remains important as the country looks for ways to make governance more responsible and fair to ordinary citizens.