Even in death, the perks of political power in Nigeria linger on. The passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari has rekindled a fiery debate over the lavish entitlements extended to the families of deceased Nigerian presidents and vice presidents.
These posthumous packages—backed by legislation—have raised serious questions among Nigerians, many of whom are grappling with economic hardship, poor healthcare, and lack of educational support.
What the Law Says About Benefits to Former Leaders’ Families
The Remuneration of Former Presidents and Heads of State (and Other Ancillary Matters) Act permits continued financial support to families of deceased Nigerian leaders. This includes:
- ₦1,000,000 annually to spouses and children of late Presidents (₦250,000 quarterly)
- ₦750,000 annually to families of deceased Vice Presidents (₦187,500 quarterly)
These payments cover basic upkeep and the children’s education up to university level, but are terminated if the spouse remarries.
Learn more about this law from the Nigerian Legal Framework.
Ongoing Perks for Late Leaders’ Families
Despite Buhari’s passing, reports confirm his family still receives a robust benefits package. Here’s a breakdown of entitlements:
- Monthly Allowances
- ₦350,000/month for former Presidents
- ₦250,000/month for former Vice Presidents
- Other Lifetime Benefits
- Fully-furnished office and 5-bedroom residence
- Three official vehicles (replaced every four years)
- Annual vacation (within and outside Nigeria)
- Life-time diplomatic passport
- Free healthcare locally and abroad
- Multiple armed security personnel
- Personal staff, secretaries, and aides
- Covered communication expenses
Read how the Nigerian government allocates budgets here.
Inside Sources Confirm Payments Continue
According to LMSINT MEDIA, the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) has affirmed that both living and deceased heads of state still receive these entitlements.
Segun Simmons Imohioson, spokesperson from the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (AGF), stated:
“There is a dedicated department within the SGF’s office overseeing former leaders and their families. Whether alive or deceased, the benefits continue.”
Public Reaction: A Nation in Disbelief
Many Nigerians have taken to social media to express their frustration:
- @ToheebAlim: “They’re richer than the system—why keep paying them?”
- @enyola: “This is an outdated law. Expunge it!”
- @sanusi_tunji: “What about widows of fallen soldiers?”
- @Isholanoah01: “They stole billions and still get more!”
This discontent reflects growing frustration over elite privileges, particularly when millions of citizens lack access to basic services.
Is This Justified in a Country With Collapsing Healthcare?
Speaking with LMSINT MEDIA, Comrade Ene Obi, former Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, voiced concern:
“It’s shocking that our hospitals remain unequipped, yet leaders fly abroad for treatment. What happened to investing in local healthcare and education?”
She added that Buhari, known for his austere lifestyle, would not have approved of the extravagant costs reportedly incurred to repatriate his remains from London.
“This is a reflection of failed governance and a misdirected cost structure,” she said.
The Real Cost of Governance in Nigeria
The backlash over posthumous benefits opens up wider discussions about:
- The bloated cost of governance
- Neglect of public health and education sectors
- Lack of support for widows and families of civil servants and soldiers
- Growing political entitlement culture
Nigeria’s rising debt profile and inflation make these allowances even more controversial. The World Bank estimates that Nigeria spends over 75% of its revenue on debt servicing. (source)
Conclusion: What Needs to Change?
As Nigerians continue to question these policies, the need for reform becomes urgent. A government that spends millions on deceased leaders’ families while hospitals collapse is one that many believe needs to reassess its priorities.
Reforming the Remuneration Act and reducing elite benefits could redirect funds towards:
- Healthcare infrastructure
- Public education
- Poverty alleviation programs
- Support for widows of fallen military officers and civil servants
Kindly Share:
Discover more from LMSINT STORE
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
