Human rights lawyer Femi Falana has strongly criticized the recent decision by the National Assembly to allocate 70 billion naira as palliatives for its members, deeming it illegal and disrespectful.
In a press release issued today, Falana drew attention to the clear violation of relevant provisions in the Nigerian Constitution and called for an immediate reversal of these contentious actions.
The allocation of 70 billion naira, distributed among 306 recently elected members, along with an additional 40 billion naira designated for the procurement of Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) and bulletproof cars for principal officials and members, has sparked widespread public condemnation.
Falana highlighted the National Assembly’s lack of consideration for the prevailing economic difficulties experienced by the majority of Nigerians, characterizing their actions as callous and insensitive.
According to the Senior Advocate (SAN), these decisions directly contravene Section 70 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which stipulates the appropriate remuneration and allowances for members of the National Assembly.