No approval of 114 percent salary increases for Tinubu, others -Presidential Aide

*Dele Alake, Presidential Spokesman Thursday discloses that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has not approved any salary increments, and ‘no such proposal has been brought before him for consideration’ and assent

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

Against the backdrop of the recent news report in the public domain, the Nigerian Presidency has denied approving a purported 114 percent increments in the salaries of the President, Vice President, elected Federal and State political office-holders, and judicial officers in the West African country.

Mr. Dele Alake, Presidential Spokesman, in a statement issued Thursday, June 22, 2023, declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has not approved any salary increase, and no such proposal has been brought before him for consideration and assent.

According to the Presidency, the Federal Government noted it followed with consternation the viral story purporting 114 percent increments in the salaries of political office holders and judicial officers in Nigeria.

Alake said while the Presidency recognised that it is within the constitutional ambit of the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) to propose and fix salaries and allowances of political office holders and Judicial officers, such cannot come to effect until it has equally been considered and approved by the President.

RMAFC affirms no salary increments approved for public servants

The Presidential Spokesman also stated it is important to note that the fiscal regulatory Commission, through its Public Relations Officer (PRO), had responded to the “fake story” being circulated, and had already set the record straight.

ConsumerConnect had reports Mr. Christian Nwachukwu, PRO of RMAFC, Wednesday, June 22, 2023, also clarified that President Tinubu has not given approval for salary increments for any public servants in Nigeria.

Alake further observed the unfounded story gained prominence, especially  the on social media and, in a section of mainstream media.

Warming against danger of fake news

Again, this brings to the fore the danger “fake news” poses to society and our national well-being in the country, stated Alake.

The Spokesman as well argued that “the misinformation was, obviously, contrived to create ill-will for the new administration, slow down the upward momentum and massive goodwill the Tinubu-led administration is currently enjoying among Nigerians as a result of its fast-paced, dynamic and progressive policies.

He equally submitted that  “it is important to reiterate to journalists, media managers, and members of the public that stories on government activities and policy issues that do not emanate from approved official communication channels should be ignored.

“Media practitioners are enjoined to, at all times, cross-check their stories to ensure accurate reportage, which is the hallmark of responsible journalism.”

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