Democracy Will Die If We’re Paid Less – Lawmakers Defend Millions In Salariesto part-time legislators?” He Asked.
In a bold and controversial statement that’s sparking nationwide debate, Senate Spokesman Yemi Adaramodu has rejected calls for a part-time legislature in Nigeria, insisting that no cost-cutting measure should impact lawmakers’ earnings or the structure of full-time legislative work.
His remarks come amid ongoing conversations about government waste, bloated costs, and fiscal responsibility, especially in the face of Nigeria’s deepening economic challenges. But for Adaramodu, the price of democracy — at least in terms of legislative compensation — is not negotiable.
🏛️ The Proposal for a Part-Time Parliament
The idea of switching to a part-time National Assembly has gained traction in recent months, particularly among political commentators and civil society groups. Advocates argue that reducing sitting frequency and perks for the country’s 469 federal lawmakers (109 Senators and 360 Representatives) could save billions in public funds — money that could be redirected toward healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
But Adaramodu thinks otherwise. Speaking in an interview with Channels Television on Friday, the Senator declared:
“If the parliament is on part-time, then it means democracy is on part-time… There is no democracy that derides its parliament and thrives.”
💼 Defending Full-Time Lawmakers: ‘We Do More Than Make Laws’
Representing Ekiti South Senatorial District, Adaramodu painted a picture of lawmakers as frontline public servants — always accessible, always engaged.
“We go home almost every time, and we are the ones they run to — for naming ceremonies, building projects, school fees, even burials,” he said.
He emphasized that beyond lawmaking, legislators also carry out oversight functions, constituency representation, and play a unique role as the most accessible arm of government. According to him, of the three arms of government (executive, judiciary, and legislature), only lawmakers truly interact with citizens on a day-to-day basis.
💸 “Don’t Touch Our Salaries”
Adaramodu did not mince words about legislative pay:
“No level of cost-cutting should affect the allocations that go to lawmakers.”
This statement is likely to raise eyebrows in a country where millions are living below the poverty line and where legislators are among the highest-paid in the world, drawing massive allowances in addition to their base salaries.
Critics have long argued that Nigerian lawmakers earn disproportionately high incomes for relatively limited sitting days, and their perks — which often include housing, vehicle allowances, estacodes for foreign trips, and generous severance — place an undue burden on public finances.
🔎 Analysis: At What Cost Does Democracy Thrive?
The Senator’s defense of full-time legislature raises essential questions about the nature of representation, the cost of governance, and public trust.
While it’s true that lawmakers serve vital roles in oversight and advocacy for their constituencies, it’s also valid to ask:
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Should Nigeria continue to fund one of the most expensive legislatures per capita in the world, even in the face of crippling debt and inflation?
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Could a hybrid or streamlined model — fewer lawmakers, less frequent sessions, and capped allowances — ensure effective democracy at a lower cost?
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Are lawmakers truly “accessible” when public complaints of inaccessibility, absenteeism, and lack of constituency accountability abound?
The tension between symbolic democracy and functional democracy is clear. Having a parliament doesn’t automatically mean it’s working in the people’s best interest — especially when there’s a glaring disconnect between citizens’ daily struggles and lawmakers’ earnings.
✅ Conclusion: Is It Time to Rethink Nigeria’s Legislative Structure?
Senator Adaramodu’s rejection of a part-time parliament and any cuts to lawmakers’ pay may resonate with some who believe in the sanctity of full-time democracy. But for many Nigerians, his comments likely confirm a growing perception that the political elite are out of touch with the economic realities of the masses.
As citizens demand more accountability and transparency in governance, the debate over legislative reform — including compensation, performance, and structure — will only intensify. If democracy is indeed on trial in Nigeria, perhaps it’s not about being “part-time” or “full-time,” but about being effective, responsive, and people-centered.
