Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, who represents Abia North Senatorial District in the National Assembly, recently disclosed that his monthly salary of ₦14 million is insufficient to cover his expenses as a senator. In a candid interview on Channels TV’s Politics Today, Kalu opened up about the financial realities of being a lawmaker in Nigeria, surprising many with his statement.
According to Kalu, the ₦14 million includes not only his personal salary but also overhead costs and staff salaries. However, he explained that after accounting for all these expenses, there isn’t much left to meet other demands, particularly in managing his constituency responsibilities. “I earn ₦14 million a month, but it covers more than just my salary. I have to take care of overhead and the salaries of my workers. When I need to travel to my constituency, I even have to buy fuel out of this money. It’s not enough to meet all the expenses,” Kalu said during the interview.
Kalu pointed out that the financial responsibilities of a senator go beyond personal needs. In addition to managing the cost of running his office, he has to fund travels and various activities necessary for keeping in touch with his constituency. “The cost of fulfilling our duties as lawmakers is high. We are constantly on the move, working on projects for our people. Many don’t understand the financial burden that comes with being in this position,” he emphasized.
This disclosure highlights a broader challenge many lawmakers face, where public expectations clash with the reality of limited resources. Kalu suggested that other senators are likely experiencing the same financial strain while trying to meet the demands of their roles.
The senator also touched on a topic he has long supported — a single six-year term for elected officials. Kalu believes this would reduce the cost of governance and the constant pressure on politicians to secure funds for re-election campaigns. He argued that focusing on re-election often distracts leaders from their primary responsibilities. “When I was governor, I advocated for a one-term tenure of six years. Leaders are too focused on re-election, rather than what they can achieve for the people. It’s a waste of resources and time. A six-year term will allow politicians to focus on their work and not worry about running for office again,” he said.
Kalu shared that his suggestion for a six-year term arose from the high cost of elections in Nigeria. According to him, reducing the frequency of elections would not only save money but also improve the performance of elected officials, as they would no longer need to divide their attention between serving the public and planning their re-election campaigns.
Despite the financial challenges, Kalu reassured his constituents that he remains committed to his responsibilities. “I am doing my best as a legislator for my constituency, and I will never fail the people of Abia North. I am sure many of my fellow senators are doing their best as well, despite the difficulties,” he stated.
Kalu emphasized that most lawmakers work hard to ensure that their constituencies are well-served, but the burden of managing overhead and other expenses can make it difficult. He reiterated his dedication to serving the people of Abia North and expressed confidence that other senators are just as committed to their constituents.
Kalu’s comments have sparked a conversation about the financial demands placed on Nigerian lawmakers and the larger issue of governance costs in the country. His suggestion for a six-year term echoes calls for reform within the political system to create a more efficient and effective government.
In conclusion, while ₦14 million might seem like a large sum, Kalu’s revelations provide insight into the true cost of public service. The senator’s remarks invite a discussion about the financial pressures faced by elected officials and the need for reforms that could lessen these burdens, such as a single-term tenure for better focus and performance.
