Politicians in Nigeria get perks cut

With luxury air travel, five-star hotels and vast entourages, the life of a Nigerian politician has been more akin to that of a rap star than a public servant.

But after decades of draining government coffers, the country’s political elite are having their businessclass wings trimmed.

Muhammadu Buhari, the former general elected as President in May, has introduced tough rules slashing the amount staff can spend on perks.

Public servants must now obtain prior permission for trips outside of the capital, Abuja, and they will be able to travel business class only if they are on an official government mission.

Buhari has also made it clear private journeys will no longer be funded by the public purse. He appointed his cabinet only in November, having spent the previous six months scrutinising accounts handed to him by predecessor Goodluck Jonathan.

A major fraud investigation is under way over claims that up to £15 billion ($33 billion) in oil revenues were siphoned off during the Jonathan Administration.

One of the biggest changes is the decision to stop funding the entourage, the way for any Nigerian “Big Man” to show he is a figure of influence. An entourage could involve 30 or more “assistants” travelling everywhere with a VIP.