The Presidency has categorically denied granting approval for a purported 114% salary raise for the President, Vice President, elected Federal and State political office-holders, as well as judicial officers.
Expressing astonishment, the Presidency reacted to the viral story circulating about the alleged salary hike. In a statement issued by Presidential spokesperson, Dele Alake, on Thursday, it was unequivocally stated that President Bola Tinubu has not endorsed any salary increment, and no such proposal has been presented to him for consideration.
While acknowledging the constitutional responsibility of the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) to propose and determine the salaries and allowances of political office-holders and judicial officers, the Presidency clarified that such changes cannot take effect unless they are duly examined and approved by the President.
Emphasizing the importance of accuracy, Alake highlighted that the RMAFC, through its Public Relations Manager, has responded to the circulation of the false story and has already set the record straight.
The statement also underscored the potential dangers of fake news, as the unfounded story gained traction on social media platforms and even found its way into certain sections of the mainstream media. This reiterates the need for vigilance in combating the spread of misinformation, which poses a threat to both society and the overall well-being of the nation.
Dele Alake said, “the misinformation was, obviously, contrived to create ill-will for the new administration, slow down the upward momentum and massive goodwill the Tinubu-led administration is currently enjoying among Nigerians as a result of its fast paced, dynamic and progressive policies.
“It is important to reiterate to journalists, media managers, and members of the public that stories on government activities and policy issues that do not emanate from approved official communication channels should be ignored.
“Media practitioners are enjoined to, at all times, cross-check their stories to ensure accurate reportage, which is the hallmark of responsible journalism,” he concluded.
