The spokesperson of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, has strongly opposed calls for lawmakers to operate on a part-time basis, saying such a move would harm Nigeria’s democracy.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Friday, the All Progressives Congress (APC) lawmaker representing Ekiti South Senatorial District said the National Assembly is a key part of democracy and cannot be relegated in the name of cost-cutting.
“If the parliament is on part-time, then it means democracy is on part-time,” Adaramodu said. “There is no democracy that derides its parliament and thrives.”
He argued that beyond making laws, lawmakers also perform oversight functions and serve as the most accessible arm of government to the Nigerian people.
“We are the ones our constituents run to for help — when they have naming ceremonies, burials, school fees, or are building houses. If the parliament wasn’t there, who would they turn to?” he asked.
Adaramodu dismissed criticisms of lawmakers’ earnings and rejected suggestions that their salaries or allowances should be reduced if a part-time model is adopted.
“If we are on part-time, can’t the same amount of money be paid to part-time legislators?” he said. He further explained that lawmakers don’t receive free housing, official drivers, or domestic staff, and that vehicle allowances are deducted from their salaries over time.
This debate comes amid ongoing criticism of the high cost of governance in Nigeria. In August 2024, former Senator Shehu Sani claimed current lawmakers in the 10th National Assembly earn ₦21 million monthly, up from the ₦13 million he earned in the 8th Senate. However, the Senate denied the claim.
Despite the controversies, Adaramodu insists that the National Assembly remains the heart of Nigeria’s democracy and must be supported to function fully.
