“It’s saddening” — Labour Party slams National Assembly

The Labour Party, under the leadership of Julius Abure, has voiced its dismay and disappointment over a reported initiative to allocate vehicles worth N160 million each to members of the National Assembly.

This move has generated significant controversy, particularly given the economic challenges faced by many Nigerians.

The controversy arises from the recent confirmation by Hon. Akin Rotimi, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Media and Public Affairs, that Toyota Prado SUVs valued at N130 million each are to be distributed to lawmakers.

He argued that such vehicles are essential for oversight functions and the efficient discharge of duties within the standing committees of the National Assembly.

In response, Julius Abure, the leader of the Labour Party, issued a statement on Tuesday, expressing strong opposition to this perceived extravagance.

Abure called upon all Labour Party legislators serving in the 10th National Assembly to resist what he considers a wasteful use of resources.

Abure urged the current administration to reconsider its priorities, emphasizing the need to focus on revitalizing the Nigerian economy instead of indulging in a culture of luxury living.

In his statement, Abure lamented,

“It is saddening that with deepening poverty among Nigerians, the administration has decided to increase its appetite for a life of opulence to mock hardworking but underprivileged Nigerians.”

He went on to question the government’s lavish spending, highlighting instances such as the allocation of three luxurious vehicles to each of the 48 cabinet ministers, funded by taxpayers.

This allocation alone is set to cost Nigerians approximately N57.6 billion, a staggering sum at a time when the government claims it cannot afford to increase the minimum wage to N30,000 per month for workers.

The juxtaposition of these expenditures with the rising cost of essential goods and services, such as a 50 kg bag of rice reaching N50,000, illustrates the stark disparity between the privileged few in public office and the struggling masses.

Abure further challenged the government’s spending decisions, particularly its choice to import vehicles from foreign nations at a time when foreign exchange is in short supply.

He advocated for supporting local manufacturers like Innoson Motor in Anambra and Peugeot Automobiles in Kaduna, which would save foreign exchange and stimulate the domestic economy.

The Labour Party’s position aligns with its ideological commitment to social justice and equal opportunity for all.

Abure implored Labour Party legislators in the 10th Assembly to resist the extravagant use of resources and uphold the party’s principles, emphasizing that Nigerians expect their representatives to prioritize the interests of the suffering masses.