God’swill Akpabio, President of the Nigerian Senate, has delivered a startling reality check to Nigerians who believe that all former lawmakers retire into luxury. Speaking during a recent policy roundtable, Akpabio said, “Contrary to public perception, many former lawmakers struggle financially after leaving office. Some even find it difficult to pay basic bills.” His comments stunned political observers and ignited heated conversations online.
He insisted that the so-called “retirement wealth” of ex-senators is a myth. “Only a few had private businesses before politics. Once their four or eight years end, they are out of circulation, cut off from contracts, favors, and visibility,” he explained. This revelation challenges long-held beliefs that Nigerian lawmakers become instant millionaires for life.
‘Some Live Like Commoners’ – Akpabio Laments Post-Senate Struggles
Akpabio further narrated the plight of some of his colleagues who, after exiting the hallowed chambers of the National Assembly, now live in obscurity. “You’ll be shocked to know that some former senators now move around in second-hand vehicles, squatting with relatives,” he said. “They are no longer powerful, so no one returns their calls.”
He emphasized the mental and emotional toll this financial instability takes on former lawmakers. “Some fall into depression. They can’t adapt to life without aides, convoys, and national relevance. The system offers no transitional support. Once you’re out, you’re forgotten.” His words paint a bleak picture of post-political life rarely acknowledged publicly.
‘Pensions for Ex-Lawmakers? That’s Fiction’ – Senate President Clears the Air
Responding to allegations that former lawmakers continue to enjoy pensions and allowances, Akpabio dismissed the claim as misinformation. “There is no pension scheme for federal lawmakers in Nigeria. That narrative is completely false,” he stated. He insisted that unless a lawmaker transitions into another public office, their income stream ends with their tenure.
He also criticized some media outlets for deliberately spreading misleading information. “It’s politically convenient to paint lawmakers as greedy elites,” Akpabio argued. “But the reality is that many leave office without a plan B. We must begin to talk about post-service reintegration policies, not just criticism.”
‘Too Many Enter Politics with Nothing’ – Akpabio Faults Lack of Financial Readiness
Akpabio blamed the rising poverty among ex-lawmakers on poor financial planning and a culture of dependency on political access. “Most of them enter public office without any established source of income. They depend entirely on political appointments and government largesse,” he revealed. “When that pipeline dries up, their world crumbles.”
He called for a paradigm shift in how Nigerians approach political office. “Politics should not replace entrepreneurship. If you don’t have a foundation before entering government, don’t expect to build one while in it.” Akpabio’s tone was blunt, offering tough love to both aspiring and retiring lawmakers.
Why Many Ex-Lawmakers Become Political Beggars
God’swill Akpabio didn’t mince words about what some ex-lawmakers now endure just to stay afloat. “I know a few who go from one governor’s house to another, seeking contracts or appointments,” he said. “It’s embarrassing but true. They have become political beggars.” The Senate President urged politicians to view public service as temporary stewardship, not a meal ticket.
He criticized the culture of entitlement among certain ex-officeholders. “When they were in office, many failed to empower themselves or invest wisely. Now they want the system to rescue them. Politics isn’t a pension plan,” he said. His statement drew sharp reactions online, with some praising his honesty while others accused him of hypocrisy.
Akpabio Pushes for Legislative Exit Reforms
To address these challenges, Akpabio proposed the institutionalization of legislative exit support programs. “We need a structured system to prepare lawmakers for life after public office,” he said. He suggested training in entrepreneurship, mandatory savings, and post-service career planning. “Other countries do it. Why can’t we?”
He concluded by warning aspiring politicians not to fall for the illusion of endless political luxury. “Don’t be fooled by the glitz of office. Once the sirens go silent, you’re on your own. Prepare for that day.” Akpabio’s remarks have sparked a national debate on the true cost of public service and the personal toll it exacts when the cameras stop rolling.
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