A member of the House of Representatives, Chinedu Obika, has shared that a fellow lawmaker was unable to pay ₦700,000 for his daughter’s school fees two months ago. Obika said he personally helped the colleague settle the bill.

The lawmaker, who represents the AMAC/Bwari Federal Constituency in the Federal Capital Territory, made the disclosure while responding to public perceptions about lawmakers’ earnings.

He used the story to show that not all members of the National Assembly are as financially comfortable as many believe.

Obika argued that some lawmakers remain silent during sessions not because they are being paid off, but because they have little to show for their positions. He challenged Nigerians to demand specific details about lawmakers’ earnings instead of relying on general assumptions.

The incident, according to Obika, proves that financial struggles exist even among those in high office. He did not name the colleague involved.

The revelation has sparked conversations about the true financial situation of public officials. Many are surprised that a lawmaker would face such difficulties despite regular salaries and allowances. Obika maintained that all entitlements for members are matters of public record.

Photo credit: Punch Newspaper