- RMAFC’s Urgent Plea: States, LGs, and lawmakers must follow the law on salary packages.
- Good Governance: Obeying remuneration laws leads to better governance and reduced costs.
- Local Government Concerns: Disregard for councilor salaries is a major issue.
- Judicial Review: 2023 saw a review of judicial office holder remuneration based on fairness and equity.
- Constitutional Adherence: The executive and legislative arms must stick to the 1999 Constitution.
Why RMAFC is on a Mission
Dr. Mohammed Shehu, the big boss at RMAFC, made it clear at a recent workshop in Abuja that everyone needs to respect the remuneration law. The workshop, themed “Role of the States Executive/Legislature in Implementing the Recommendations of RMAFC with respect to Remuneration Package for Political, Public and Judicial Office Holders in Nigeria,” highlighted the importance of fiscal responsibility.
According to Dr. Shehu, one of RMAFC’s main jobs is to give advice to the federal and state governments on how to be more fiscally efficient and how to rake in more revenue. When everyone respects the remuneration law, it automatically translates to good governance. It also means reducing the cost of governance in Nigeria. This makes sure that public funds are used wisely.
The Local Government Headache
RMAFC is particularly worried about the disrespect for the salary packages of elected councilors at the local government level. According to the Nigerian government, local government legislative councils are like the legislative arm of the third tier of government. This makes them crucial for grassroots governance.
The commission has the constitutional power to determine the remuneration of the legislative arm. Meanwhile, the state House of Assembly, based on the recommendations of the commission, prescribes the salaries of appointed councilors that form the executive council. So, basically, RMAFC is saying, “Let’s get this right, people!”
Judicial Office Holders: A Fair Review
In October 2023, RMAFC took a good look at the remuneration of judicial office holders. According to reports, principles such as equity and fairness guided the review. The commission aims to ensure that everyone is treated equally, with uniform salaries, allowances, and benefits for positions that require equal input.
RMAFC also wants to ensure that the salary package doesn’t reward a newbie more than a senior colleague in a similar role. The remuneration should match the risk and responsibilities attached to each office, fitting the purpose, powers, and activities of the position. Additionally, the salary should be attractive enough to bring in and keep the right people.
Sticking to the Constitution
Dr. Shehu is advising the executive and legislative arms at the state level to strictly follow the provisions of the 1999 Constitution. This applies when implementing the remuneration package for political and public office holders at the state and local government levels.
Mr. Mohammed Usman, Chairman of the Remuneration and Monetisation Committee, believes the workshop will tackle the challenges in implementing the commission’s remuneration package. He urged participants to actively engage in discussions to achieve the workshop’s objectives.
Why This Matters
In summary, RMAFC is serious about ensuring that everyone follows the rules when it comes to salaries and remuneration. Obeying the law leads to better governance, reduced costs, and a fairer system for all. It’s all about making Nigeria a better place through fiscal responsibility and accountability. So, let’s hope the message gets through!
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