A member of the House of Representatives, Yusuf Galambi (NNPP – Jigawa), has dismissed claims that lawmakers received bribes to endorse President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Kaduna, Galambi refuted accusations that the National Assembly was influenced or pressured into approving the decision, describing such claims as baseless.
His response comes amid criticisms from various groups alleging that the legislature acted under external influence in handling the political crisis in Rivers State.
According to Galambi, lawmakers supported the decision out of a commitment to preserving democracy and ensuring stability in the state.
He stressed that the National Assembly’s position was driven by the need to maintain political order, foster peace, and protect democratic institutions.
“I was surprised to see false reports suggesting that we were bribed or pressured to approve the resolution supporting the President’s intervention in Rivers State. The reality is that most lawmakers backed the decision to safeguard democracy and prevent further instability,” Galambi said.
He noted that the move was necessary to address the political turmoil in the state, particularly as Governor Siminalayi Fubara faced increasing pressure and impeachment threats from certain members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
“The National Assembly played a vital role in recommending that the President establish a reconciliation committee of respected Nigerians to address the crisis before the emergency rule ends. Unlike some opposition figures and civil society groups who view the situation emotionally, we assessed it based on national interest and the need for stability,” he added.
Galambi urged Nigerians to support efforts aimed at resolving the crisis and to allow President Tinubu to implement a peaceful resolution through dialogue and unity.