Hon. Yusuf Shittu Galambi, representing Gwaram Federal Constituency in Jigawa State, has refuted allegations that members of the Nationwide Meeting had been bribed to help President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
His assertion comes amid ongoing controversy, with some teams accusing lawmakers of being influenced of their decision-making.
In a press launch issued on Saturday, Galambi dismissed the claims, insisting that lawmakers neither acquired inducements nor had been coerced into backing the president’s determination.
In accordance with him, nearly all of members supported the measure out of a dedication to defending democracy and safeguarding the pursuits of the folks of Rivers State.
He emphasised that the Nationwide Meeting’s endorsement was motivated by a want to uphold patriotism, political stability, peace, and the safety of democratic establishments.
“I used to be shocked by the media studies spreading falsehoods and mischief, suggesting that we had been bribed or pressured into supporting the president’s determination concerning Rivers State,” he mentioned.
He additional defined that lawmakers backed the transfer as a obligatory step to protect democracy and even to guard Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who faces intense political opposition from a faction of the Rivers State Home of Meeting, which may result in his impeachment.
“Nigerians ought to acknowledge the function of the Nationwide Meeting in advising the president to ascertain a reconciliation crew of eminent Nigerians earlier than the six-month emergency rule expires,” he added.
Addressing criticism from opposition teams and civil society organizations, Galambi insisted that lawmakers prioritized nationwide unity, political cohesion, and democratic stability over emotional reactions.
“Opposite to the views of opposition teams and activists, we assessed the scenario with a deal with patriotism, peace, and the preservation of democratic buildings—together with the folks, the governor, and the Rivers State Meeting,” he acknowledged.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to help peaceable dialogue in resolving the disaster.
“I name on well-meaning Nigerians to present peace an opportunity and permit Mr. President to discover the absolute best options via dialogue and unity,” he mentioned.
