Aide to Ondo North Senator Resigns Over Meager N20,000 Monthly Salary, Citing Financial Hardship

Aide to Ondo North Senator Resigns Over Meager N20,000 Monthly Salary, Citing Financial Hardship

Oluwatunbosun Awe, a personal aide to Senator Olajide Ipinsagba, who represents Ondo North Senatorial District, has formally resigned from his position, raising serious concerns about the conditions of political aides in Nigeria. Awe cited an unsustainable monthly salary of just N20,000 as the primary reason for his decision to step down.

In a resignation letter obtained by reporters, Awe expressed frustration over what he described as a deeply disappointing compensation package that made it nearly impossible for him to meet his basic needs or carry out his duties effectively. He noted that despite his commitment to the office and the responsibilities entrusted to him, the financial remuneration did not reflect the realities of the economic situation in the country.

“Working as a legislative aide requires time, energy, and resources. However, with a monthly salary of N20,000, survival let alone efficiency is practically impossible,” Awe stated. He further added that the role had become financially draining and emotionally exhausting, as he was often forced to cover his work-related expenses from his own pocket.

The resignation has sparked conversations on social media and among political observers about the treatment and welfare of aides to elected officials in Nigeria. Many have questioned how legislative aides, who are often essential to the daily operations of lawmakers, can perform their duties under such constrained financial conditions.

Senator Ipinsagba has not yet publicly responded to the resignation or the concerns raised. However, the development has intensified calls for a broader review of the remuneration and welfare packages for political aides across the country.

Analysts say the situation underscores a larger systemic issue within Nigeria’s political structure—where aides, despite their importance, often operate under precarious conditions with little financial or institutional support.