Stop the lies, we weren’t bribed to approve state of emergency in Rivers – Lawmaker

By Paul Dada

A member of the House of Representatives, Yusuf Galambi,  has denied that members of  National Assembly were bribed to approve the state of emergency President Bola Tinubu declared for Rivers State.

Galambi, a member of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) who represents Gwaram Federal Constituency, made the denial in a statement on Saturday 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 being compromised in its decision making process.

He said,  “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 Gov. Siminalayi Fubara, who is facing a lot of political challenges and maneuvering by a group of members of the Rivers House of Assembly, which may lead to his impeachment.

“Nigerians 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 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.”