Former Speaker Clarifies Salary and Allowance Amid Public Misconceptions
Hon Yakubu Dogara, the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, has disclosed that during his tenure, his monthly salary was N400,000, and his total allowance amounted to N25 million.
Speaking at the two-day House of Representatives open week event in Abuja, Dogara addressed the widespread belief that members of the National Assembly receive exorbitant salaries and allowances. He emphasized that this misconception has unfairly tarnished the reputation of the Assembly, leading to them being labeled as "thieves" in public discourse.
Dogara explained that, as Speaker, he instructed his accountant to manage a separate account exclusively for his allowances. He asserted that he did not withdraw any money for personal use; instead, all funds were allocated to meet the needs of his constituents. Despite his accountant’s concerns over the high demand on the account, Dogara advised borrowing funds when necessary to maintain support for his constituents, with the understanding that borrowed amounts would be reimbursed.
"I share this to urge Nigerians to reassess their views on legislators' earnings and to understand that the prevalent narrative is not accurate," Dogara stated.
