President Bola Tinubu has responded to media reports regarding a purported 114% increase in his salary, as well as that of Vice President Kasim Shettima, elected federal and state political office holders, and judicial officers.
Through a statement issued by his special adviser on special duties, communications, and strategy, Dele Alake, President Tinubu made it clear that he has not approved any salary increase and that no such proposal has been presented to him for consideration.
Alake also addressed statements made by certain officials of the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) regarding an alleged salary increase for public officials. He emphasized that while the RMAFC has the constitutional mandate to propose and determine the salaries and allowances of political office holders and judicial officers, any such proposal requires the approval of the President before taking effect.
Furthermore, Alake highlighted that the RMAFC, through its Public Relations Manager, has already responded to the circulating fake news and has clarified the situation.
Addressing the media platforms responsible for reporting the salary increase (excluding Qed.ng), Alake pointed out that the significant attention given to this misinformation on social media and in certain sections of the mainstream media underscores the dangers of fake news and its negative impact on society and the well-being of Nigeria.
Alake stated, “The misinformation was, obviously, contrived to create ill-will for the new administration, slow down the upward momentum, and undermine the extensive goodwill that the Tinubu-led administration is currently enjoying among Nigerians due to its fast-paced, dynamic, and progressive policies.”
He further emphasized the importance of journalists, media managers, and the public relying on official and approved communication channels for accurate information on government activities and policy issues. Alake urged media practitioners to verify their stories and ensure responsible journalism characterized by accurate reportage.
In conclusion, Alake reiterated the need to disregard stories that do not originate from approved official communication channels and to prioritize cross-checking information to ensure the dissemination of accurate news.
