By Abdullahi Alhassan Kaduna
Honourable Yusuf Shittu Galambi, a member representing Gwaram federal constituency from Jigawa state, has dismissed allegations that members of the National Assembly received bribes to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. Galambi's comments come amid controversy surrounding the declaration, with some groups accusing the National Assembly of being compromised.
"I was surprised with the media posts, especially about the lies and mischief perpetuated against us, that we collected some inducement or rather being coerced to pass on the resolution of supporting Mr President's action in Rivers state," Galambi said in a statement made available to newsmen on Saturday.
According to Galambi, the majority of National Assembly members supported the decision due to their commitment to saving democracy and protecting the interests of the people of Rivers State. He explained that the National Assembly's decision was guided by a desire to ensure patriotism, political cohesion, peace, and the protection of democratic institutions.
Galambi also highlighted the National Assembly's role in asking President Tinubu to form a reconciliation team of eminent Nigerians before the expiration of the six-month emergency rule. "Nigerians should appreciate the role of the National Assembly for asking the President to form a reconciliation team...towards finding the best ways of solving these crises through dialogue and unity," he said.
The lawmaker stressed that democracy must be protected, and urged well-meaning Nigerians to give peace a chance. "Therefore, I want to advise well-meaning Nigerians to give peace a chance by allowing Mr President to find the best ways of solving these crises through dialogue and unity," he concluded. President Tinubu has emphasized the need for adherence to the rule of law in Rivers to ensure lasting peace and prosperity.