A member representing Gwaram Federal Constituency in Jigawa State, Hon. Yusuf Shittu Galambi, has denied allegations that members of the National Assembly were bribed to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
This is coming amid ongoing controversy, where some groups have been circulating a purported allegation accusing the lawmakers of being influenced that made them hurriedly okayed the state of emergency slammed by president Tinubu on Rivers state.
Galambi slammed the claim on Saturday, insisting that no lawmakers was induced as the fake news only existed in the imagination of its purveyors and neither there was any coercion into backing the president’s decision.
According to him, the lawmakers acted out of a commitment to protect the Nigerian baby democracy and to also safeguard the interests of the people of Rivers State.
He explained that the National Assembly’s endorsement was motivated by a desire to uphold patriotism, political stability, peace, and the protection of democratic institutions in the country.
In his statement, “I was shocked by the media reports spreading falsehoods and mischief, suggesting that we were bribed or forced into supporting the president’s decision regarding Rivers State”.
Galambi revealed that lawmakers throw their weight behind the call to preserve democracy and even to protect Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who faces intense political opposition from a faction of the Rivers State House of Assembly, which could lead to his impeachment.
“Nigerians should recognize the role of the National Assembly in advising the president to establish a reconciliation team of eminent Nigerians before the six-month emergency rule expires,” he added.
“Contrary to the views of opposition groups and activists, we assessed the situation with a focus on patriotism, peace, and the preservation of democratic structures—including the people, the governor, and the Rivers State Assembly,” he stated.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to support peaceful dialogue in resolving the crisis.
“I call on well-meaning Nigerians to give peace a chance and allow Mr. President to explore the best possible solutions through dialogue and unity,” he said
