In separate press statements issued by the groups, they rejected the proposal, insisting that the Nigerian government should instead prioritize job creation, education, healthcare, and the welfare of workers struggling under harsh economic conditions.
In its statement titled, “No to Greed While the People Bleed”, the RSM said the proposal amounted to an insult to ordinary Nigerians who are battling unemployment, inflation, and declining living standards.
“It is an insult to the working people and poor masses that those in positions of power, who already enjoy bloated salaries, outrageous allowances, and luxurious lifestyles, are considering even higher remuneration, while the average worker struggles on a minimum wage that is both inadequate and inconsistently paid,” the group stated.
According to RSM’s Publicity Secretary, Salako Kayode, the move reflects the “anti-poor, capitalist character of the ruling class,” which prioritizes the comfort of a few elites over the survival of millions.
The group warned that the increase would further widen inequality and called on the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and civil society organizations to resist the proposal, even through mass protests and strikes if necessary.
RSM demanded an immediate reversal of any proposed salary increment for politicians, a drastic cut in governance costs, the implementation of a living wage for Nigerian workers, and increased investments in healthcare, education, housing, and transportation.
Similarly, the Workers and Youth Solidarity Network (WYSN) condemned the proposed increment, saying it was “outrageous” at a time when inflation has eroded the newly approved minimum wage of N70,000.
“This proposed salary increase is not only immoral, but a clear reflection of a system that prioritizes the wealth and comfort of a few at the top while abandoning the basic needs of millions,” said Comrade Iortyom Ushahemba Moses, WYSN’s Secretary.
The group questioned why funds were always available for political luxury but never enough for public services.
“What justification exists for politicians to increase their already bloated earnings while workers are forced to survive on a minimum wage that cannot feed a family?” WYSN asked.
WYSN demanded the cancellation of any salary increases for political office holders, a slash in political privileges, the implementation of a genuine living wage tied to cost of living, and full public funding of education and health under democratic control by workers and communities.
The group further called on Nigerians to unite with trade unions, students, unemployed youth, and civil society groups to organize protests, campaigns, and forums against what it described as “criminal enrichment of the ruling elite.”
The groups, therefore, urged Nigerians to resist the proposal through mass action, arguing that political leaders had no moral right to enrich themselves while claiming there were no funds for workers’ wages, education, or healthcare.
They warned that unless reversed, the increment would deepen inequality and worsen the plight of millions already living in poverty.
“Let the politicians live like the people they represent. If they say there’s no money for the masses, then there should be no money for themselves either,” WYSN declared.
The rejection of the proposed salary increase for politicians by RSM and WYSN added to a growing wave of discontent from Nigerians, labour unions, student movements, and civil society groups who see the proposed salary increase as tone-deaf amid worsening living conditions.
With inflation biting hard, unemployment at record levels, and insecurity worsening, critics argue that the focus of the government should be on creating jobs, funding public education and healthcare, and improving workers’ wages rather than boosting political office holders’ earnings.
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