Father Mbaka criticized the hefty allowances received by lawmakers amid the prevailing economic challenges in the country. He proposed that state governors and legislators should receive the same minimum wage of ₦62,000 suggested for Nigerian workers. Mbaka urged the government not to overlook the minimum wage issue to prevent a potential crisis.
His remarks followed the deadlock between Organized Labour and the government over a new minimum wage. Labor unions went on strike after rejecting the government’s ₦60,000 proposal, which was later increased to ₦62,000 following President Bola Tinubu’s commitment.
Mbaka emphasized that senators, governors, and legislators should also be entitled to the proposed national minimum wage. He questioned the rationale behind the significant allowances received by lawmakers and suggested that such benefits should be directed to those in need, such as people suffering in rural areas.
The cleric highlighted the disparity between the allowances of lawmakers and the salaries of essential workers like teachers, nurses, and doctors. He called for sincerity in addressing the country’s inflation and urged the government to handle the situation carefully to prevent potential unrest.