Former President Buhari’s Family to Receive Statutory Benefits

Abuja, Nigeria – Following the eventual demise of former President Muhammadu Buhari, his family is set to receive a comprehensive package of benefits from the federal government, as stipulated by Nigerian law. These provisions aim to ensure the continued welfare of the former president’s dependents.

Sources indicate the financial entitlements include a monthly upkeep allowance of N350,000 for his wife. Additionally, the family will receive N250,000 every three months to cover educational expenses for the children and other family needs, alongside another N250,000 disbursed quarterly as a yearly allowance.

Beyond monetary payments, the family is entitled to a range of significant benefits. These include free medical treatment both within Nigeria and abroad, and the provision of three official government cars, which will be replaced every four years. A fully furnished five-bedroom house, located anywhere in Nigeria of the family’s choosing, will also be provided.

Security arrangements include four dedicated security officers from the Police and Department of State Services (DSS). The family will also enjoy a paid vacation annually, free staff for both house and office work, and one free government phone line.

These benefits are legally enshrined and will continue to be provided unless the former president’s wife remarries.

Addendum: Are these benefits similar for former Governors?

While the details of benefits for former presidents are quite explicit, the provisions for former governors can vary significantly from state to state. Unlike the federal legislation governing former presidents’ emoluments, benefits for former governors are typically determined by laws passed by individual state Houses of Assembly.

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For instance, many states have passed “pension laws” for their former governors and their deputies, which often include provisions for a percentage of their last-held salary as pension, residential accommodation, official vehicles, security details, and medical expenses. However, the specific figures, number of cars, and other perks differ widely across states.

Some states have faced public criticism for what are perceived as extravagant retirement packages for their former executives, while others offer more modest provisions.