Mr. Philip Agbese, the Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, criticized former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s recent claim that members of the National Assembly determine their own salaries. Agbese argued that the 10th House of Representatives is markedly different from the legislature during Obasanjo’s time, stating that Obasanjo’s allegations are unfounded and based on outdated perceptions.
Agbese responded to Obasanjo’s comments, in which the former President condemned the practice of lawmakers setting their own salaries, calling it immoral. Obasanjo had stated that salaries and allowances should be set by the Revenue Mobilisation and Fiscal Responsibility Commission, not by the lawmakers themselves.
While acknowledging Obasanjo’s criticism, Agbese asserted that the former President is both right and wrong, emphasizing that the current House of Representatives operates with a higher level of accountability and transparency under Speaker Tajudeen Abass. He noted that Obasanjo’s negative experiences with the National Assembly during his presidency are not reflective of the current legislative body’s actions.
Agbese highlighted that no one is more committed to the welfare of the people than the current Speaker and that the era of pursuing narrow interests is over. He also dismissed allegations that members of the National Assembly received N100 million and N200 million, stressing that such practices have no place in the current administration led by President Bola Tinubu.
He praised President Tinubu’s leadership style, noting that Tinubu has garnered the support of the legislature through diplomacy and collaboration, rather than coercion. According to Agbese, the President’s approach contrasts sharply with past administrations, and the partnership between the executive and legislative branches under Tinubu is focused on advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda for the benefit of the country.
Agbese also commended Speaker Abbas for his integrity, leadership, and commitment to due process, suggesting that the current administration’s relationship with the National Assembly is one of mutual respect and shared goals, unlike the contentious dynamics during Obasanjo’s tenure.
Finally, Agbese contrasted the leadership of the Senate under President Tinubu with that of the Obasanjo era, pointing out that the current Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, is different from his predecessors, who were impeached during Obasanjo’s time. He suggested that some former leaders are envious of the positive relationship between the executive and legislative branches today.
