The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project SERAP has filed a lawsuit against the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission RMAFC over its proposed salary increase for Nigeria’s political and public office holders, including the President, Vice President, governors, deputies, and lawmakers.
In a statement today, SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare confirmed the legal action, which was filed at the Federal High Court, Abuja under suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1834/2025. The group is challenging the legality and constitutionality of the proposed pay hike, arguing it contradicts the Nigerian Constitution and violates the principle of equality.
Last month, RMAFC had proposed new salary structures for top public officials, calling the current figures paltry. The Commission said the new package would be fair, realistic, and sustainable, noting that the last major review occurred in 1992.
However, SERAP argues that any increase at a time when over 133 million Nigerians live in poverty is both insensitive and unconstitutional. The organisation insists that the Commission should focus on reducing excessive allowances and life pensions for officeholders, instead of raising salaries.
