Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North, has revealed that his total monthly earnings as a senator amount to N14 million. Speaking on Thursday, Kalu dismissed the common belief that lawmakers live in luxury while the general population struggles with poverty.

"I earn N14 million for everything in a month. That includes the overhead costs, workers' salaries—everything," the former Abia State governor explained. He added that the amount is insufficient to cover expenses such as fueling his car to visit his constituency and maintaining the constituency office.

Kalu also addressed the controversy surrounding the luxury cars allegedly provided to lawmakers. He clarified that while committees in the National Assembly are given vehicles, individual lawmakers are not provided with official cars. "I am in the Senate, and many things are said about the Senators that are not true. No lawmaker is given a personal vehicle," he said.

Regarding the current economic hardship in Nigeria, Kalu pointed out that the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic are still felt globally. He noted that countries with long-established robust economies have recovered more quickly, whereas Nigeria continues to face challenges. Kalu expressed confidence in President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to address the country's economic instability.

"The president knows that Nigerians are suffering and hungry. He is in touch with reality and even drives around at night to observe what is happening in Abuja," Kalu concluded.