Afe Babalola makes case for sitting allowance for National Assembly members, not salaries.

Chief Afe Babalola, the Founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, has called on President Bola Tinubu’s government to implement a comprehensive restructuring through constitutional amendments to address existing political and social imbalances in the system. He emphasized the need to eliminate excessive allowances given to former presidents, vice presidents, governors, deputy governors, federal and state lawmakers, as well as other political appointees. Chief Babalola also recommended a ban on officeholders from having foreign accounts.During the 63rd yearly general meeting of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture, themed ‘Promoting Public-Private Partnership for National Development,’ Chief Babalola expressed his view that federal and state lawmakers should only receive sitting allowances instead of salaries, starting from the 10th National Assembly. He criticized the exorbitant severance packages granted to political officeholders when they leave office, deeming such practices unacceptable and calling for their discontinuation to ensure the progress of the country.Furthermore, Chief Babalola appealed to the Federal Government to prioritize the security of lives and property in order to attract global investors to invest in the country. He emphasized that a safe and secure environment is crucial for the growth and development of the nation.In addition, Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, urged governments at all levels to embrace Public-Private Partnership initiatives, considering it the most effective catalyst for economic development and prosperity. This approach involves collaboration between the public and private sectors to drive sustainable growth and address various societal challenges.Overall, Chief Afe Babalola’s appeals for constitutional reforms, the reduction of excessive allowances, and the promotion of Public-Private Partnerships reflect his concerns about political and social imbalances and his vision for a more equitable and prosperous Nigeria.