A member of the National Assembly representing Gwaram Federal Constituency, Yusuf Galambi, has refuted claims that lawmakers were bribed or coerced into supporting President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Kaduna, Galambi clarified the controversy surrounding the decision, which has sparked criticism from some groups accusing the National Assembly of compromised decision-making.
According to Galambi, the allegations of inducement or coercion are unfounded. He stated that the majority of National Assembly members backed the President’s action due to their commitment to protecting democracy and ensuring the welfare of the people of Rivers State. He further emphasized that the decision was rooted in the need for political cohesion, peace, and the preservation of democratic institutions.
“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 Siminalayi Fubara, who is facing a lot of political challenges and manoeuvring by a group of members of the Rivers House of Assembly, which may lead to his impeachment,” Galambi said.
He added that the National Assembly had requested the formation of a reconciliation team of eminent Nigerians before the expiration of the six-month emergency rule to help resolve the situation. Galambi also took issue with the emotional reactions from opposition groups and civil society organizations, asserting that lawmakers are driven by patriotism and a dedication to ensuring the stability of the country’s democratic process.
“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,” Galambi explained.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to support efforts for peace and dialogue, advising that President Tinubu should be allowed to refine the best approaches to resolving the crisis through unity and dialogue.