No bribery in approving Tinubu’s emergency rule in Rivers – Lawmaker

A member of the House of Representatives, Yusuf Galambi (NNPP – Jigawa), has denied allegations that lawmakers were bribed to support President Bola Tinubu’s decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State.

In a statement issued on Saturday in Kaduna, Galambi refuted claims suggesting that members of the National Assembly were influenced or coerced into endorsing the move.

His response follows accusations from some groups alleging that the legislature was compromised in its decision-making process regarding the Rivers State crisis.

The lawmaker emphasized that the majority of his colleagues backed the decision out of a commitment to protecting democracy and safeguarding the interests of the people of Rivers State.

He explained that the National Assembly’s stance was guided by principles of patriotism, political stability, peace, and the preservation of democratic institutions.

“I was surprised to see misleading reports accusing us of collecting bribes or being forced to approve the resolution supporting Mr. President’s intervention in Rivers State. The truth is that most of us supported the move because it was necessary to protect democracy,” Galambi stated.

He added that the decision aimed to prevent the political crisis in Rivers State from escalating, particularly as Governor Siminalayi Fubara faced mounting political pressure and threats of impeachment from some members of the state assembly.

“The National Assembly played a crucial role in urging the President to form a reconciliation committee of eminent Nigerians before the six-month emergency rule expires. Unlike the opposition and some civil society groups who view the situation emotionally, we approached it with a sense of patriotism and responsibility,” he added.

Galambi further urged Nigerians to support efforts to restore peace and allow President Tinubu to explore the best possible solutions through dialogue and national unity.