The Nigerian Senate and the House of Representatives have strongly denied allegations that lawmakers received bribes to approve the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The allegations, which have stirred controversy nationwide, claim that senators received $30,000 each while House members got $5,000 each to sanction the move.
The emergency rule, imposed following escalating political tensions and security concerns in the oil-rich state, has been met with mixed reactions. Critics argue that the decision was politically motivated and that lawmakers were financially induced to push it through.
In a joint statement released on Saturday, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas categorically refuted the claims, describing them as “baseless fabrications designed to undermine the integrity of the National Assembly.”
“The National Assembly remains committed to upholding democratic values and ensuring the security and stability of all Nigerian states. At no time did any lawmaker receive bribes or any form of inducement to approve the emergency rule in Rivers State,” the statement read.
The bribery allegations have heightened political tensions in Rivers State and beyond. Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who was suspended following the emergency rule declaration, has yet to comment on the claims. Meanwhile, opposition parties and civil society organizations are demanding an independent probe into the matter.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan and Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka have also weighed in, criticizing the suspension of the state governor and questioning the rationale behind the emergency declaration. In response, the presidency dismissed their concerns, insisting that the move was necessary to prevent a breakdown of law and order.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and other anti-corruption agencies have been urged to investigate the bribery allegations to ensure accountability and transparency in governance.
Speaking to TheLink News, a senior legislative aide, who requested anonymity, dismissed the allegations as “a smear campaign by disgruntled politicians.”
“There is no evidence to support these claims. The emergency rule was debated extensively, and lawmakers acted in the best interest of national security,” the aide said.
However, opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, have called for an independent judicial inquiry, warning that the credibility of the National Assembly is at stake.
With political tensions still high, all eyes are now on the National Assembly’s next steps. Lawmakers have promised to hold a special session next week to further address the allegations and discuss potential legal actions against those spreading “false information.”
As the controversy unfolds, Nigerians are watching closely, eager to see whether the bribery claims will lead to a full-scale investigation or fade away as another political scandal in the country’s tumultuous landscape.
