House of Representatives Denies Allegations of $5,000 Bribe Over Rivers State Emergency Declaration

House of Representatives Denies Allegations of $5,000 Bribe Over Rivers State Emergency Declaration
The House of Representatives has dismissed allegations that its members were bribed with $5,000 each to approve President Bola Tinubu’s request for a state of emergency in Rivers State. Addressing journalists in Abuja on Saturday, Deputy Spokesman of the House, Hon. Philip Agbese (APC, Benue), described the claims as false, malicious, and politically motivated………….READ MORE

Agbese emphasized that the lawmakers’ decision was driven by patriotism and the need to restore peace in Rivers State, rather than any financial inducement.

“The suggestion that members of the House were bribed to support the state of emergency declaration is completely unfounded and unfair. Our resolution was based on careful deliberation over the security and political situation in Rivers,” he stated.

According to him, the House of Representatives, as an independent legislative body, remains committed to upholding democratic principles and safeguarding national stability. He dismissed the allegations as baseless fabrications aimed at misleading the public.

House’s Adjustments to Emergency Declaration
Agbese clarified that the House made key amendments before approving the emergency declaration.

Legislative Oversight: The National Assembly will assume legislative responsibilities in Rivers State for the duration of the emergency.

Review Period: Instead of an automatic six-month enforcement, the emergency period could be shortened if warring factions reach a resolution earlier.

He expressed confidence that President Tinubu, as a staunch democrat, would not undermine democratic institutions and would lift the emergency rule once peace is restored.

Call for a Peaceful Resolution
The lawmaker further disclosed that the House resolved to form a tripartite committee, comprising eminent Nigerians, parliamentarians, and executive representatives, to mediate between the conflicting parties in Rivers State.

Dismissing the bribery allegations, Agbese accused political opponents of attempting to tarnish the House’s image and urged Nigerians to continue supporting their lawmakers in working for national progress.

He concluded by affirming that once the state of emergency ends, both the Rivers State Government and the State Assembly will emerge stronger, ensuring stability and development in the region.