House of Representatives Member, Yusuf Galambi (NNPP-Jigawa) has debunked allegations that the National Assembly members received bribes to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of state of emergency in Rivers.
Mr Galambi, who represents Gwaram Federal Constituency, said this in a statement on Saturday March 22, 2025 in Kaduna.
The lawmaker’s clarification came amidst controversy surrounding the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers, with some groups accusing the national assembly of compromised in its decision making process.
Mr Galamba argued that there was no truth to claims that lawmakers were induced or coerced into endorsing the President’s action.
According to the him, majority of members supported the decision due to their commitment to saving democracy and protecting the interests of people of the state.
The lawmaker explained that the national assembly’s decision was guilded by a desire to ensure patriotism, political cohesion, peace and protection of democratic institution.
“I was surprised with posts, especially about lies and mischief perpetuated against us, that we collected some inducement or rather being coerced to pass the resolution supporting Mr. President’s action in Rivers.
“The majority of our members supported the good efforts of Mr. President to save democracy.
“The decision was taken to save Governor Siminialayi Fubara, who is facing a lot of political challenges and manevering by a group of members of the Rivers House of Assembly, which may lead to his impeachment.
“Nigeria should appreciate the role of the national assembly for asking the President to form a reconciliation team of eminent Nigerians before expiration of the six months emergency rule.
“Contrary to the emotional perspective of the opposition, civil society groups and others, in the national assembly, we look at issues from the perspective of patriotism, political cohesion, peace to save democratic components including people, governor and members of the Rivers State Assembly”.
Mr Galambi noted that democracy must be protected, while advising Nigerians to give peace a chance by allowing by President Tinubu to finetune best ways to resolving the crisis through dialogue and unity.
-9News Nigeria.
