Senators get credit alerts secretly — but Akpabio pressed the alarm, says Shehu Sani

 

Former Kaduna senator, Shehu Sani, has shed light on a common practice among legislators involving discreet payments away from public scrutiny. Sani's revelation comes in the wake of a recent gaffe by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who inadvertently disclosed that lawmakers had been paid during their recess.

The incident unfolded after the upper legislative chamber concluded the screening and confirmation process for ministerial nominees put forth by President Bola Tinubu. Following the exercise, the senators adjourned plenary sessions until September 26.

However, as the session neared its conclusion, Senate President Akpabio made an unexpected announcement. He informed his fellow senators that Magaji Tambuwal, the clerk of the national assembly, had disbursed funds to their various accounts to facilitate an enjoyable holiday period.

A twist of irony ensued as the senate president's words were broadcasted live on television and captured by press cameras. Realizing the unintentional exposure, Akpabio swiftly retracted his statement, explaining that the funds were meant to support their holiday plans and ensuring their safe return.

This incident, albeit accidental, has reignited discussions surrounding the allocation of funds to lawmakers. The opacity surrounding the salaries and allowances of federal legislators has long been a topic of public debate.

In a tweet on Wednesday, Shehu Sani, who served as a senator between 2015 and 2019, shared his perspective on the matter. He highlighted that the process of crediting legislators' accounts typically occurs discreetly, away from public attention. Akpabio's inadvertent revelation inadvertently brought this practice into the spotlight, momentarily exposing a usually concealed aspect of legislative operations.

The incident serves as a reminder of the intricacies and nuances that characterize the realm of politics and governance. While the specific details of legislators' remuneration remain veiled, this instance offers a glimpse into the intricacies of how financial matters are managed within the legislative domain. As public discourse continues to unfold, the inadvertent slip by the senate president prompts contemplation on the transparency and accountability of the financial aspects of Nigeria's legislative processes.