Ex-CJN, Tanko Muhammed To Get N2.5 Billion Benefits

Category: Nigeria News

The immediate past Chief Justice of Nigeria, Ibrahim Muhammad, is expected to get a N2.5bn severance package from the Federal Government.

Muhammad’s resignation on health grounds was announced on Monday, less than a week after the 14 Supreme Court Justices accused him of financial malfeasance and maladministration.

Following the development, the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), on Monday swore in Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, the next most senior Justice as the acting CJN.

As part of the package for the retired chief justice put together by the National Judicial Council, a mansion will be built for him in Abuja or any city of his choosing with a lump sum for furnishing.

This is in addition to a gratuity that is 300 per cent of his annual basic salary of N3.36m as well as a pension for life.

The National Judicial Commission had in 2019 recommended the payment of N2.5bn for Muhammad’s predecessor, Walter Onnoghen.

A former CJN, Alfa Belgore, was also reportedly paid about N2.8b after he retired from service.

Just like state governors, a retired chief justice is entitled to at least four domestic staff and sundry allowances for personal upkeep.

This includes allowances for accommodation, utilities, entertainment, medical, security, furniture, and vehicles.

Though the remuneration and severance package of political, public and judicial officers were published on the website of the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission, the full details of the allowances were not disclosed.