APC Lawmakers Defend Tax Reform Efforts Amid Controversy

House of Representatives Denies Bribery Claims Amid Emergency Resolution

Let’s set the record straight, folks. The House of Representatives has come out swinging to refute allegations that lawmakers were bribed with $5,000 each to approve President Bola Tinubu’s request for a state of emergency in Rivers State. This is serious stuff, and the lawmakers aren’t taking it lying down.

Hon. Philip Agbese, the Deputy Spokesman for the House and representing Benue under the APC, was crystal clear during a press conference in Abuja. These claims, he said, are not just false—they’re malicious. Agbese didn’t mince words, calling the accusations “lies from the pit of hell.”

Now, let’s rewind a bit. These allegations bubbled up after the House passed a resolution on Thursday that suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the entire Rivers State House of Assembly. Critics suggested that lawmakers were swayed by cold hard cash. But Agbese had something to say about that.

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“The idea that members of the House of Representatives were bought off for $5,000 is an insult to our integrity and to the institution of Parliament itself,” Agbese stated emphatically. He went on to explain that the decision wasn’t about money—it was about patriotism and the urgent need to restore peace in Rivers State.

A Matter of National Interest

Agbese didn’t stop there. He emphasized that the House’s decision to support the state of emergency was in the best interest of the nation. It wasn’t just about ticking boxes; it was about fulfilling their constitutional duties to ensure stability. He likened their decision to the wisdom of King Solomon, a biblical figure known for making tough but fair calls.

But wait, there’s more. Agbese took aim at the opposition, suggesting they weren’t giving the House enough credit for its efforts to tackle national issues. He pointed out that the House wasn’t just rubber-stamping the President’s request. They made key adjustments, like ensuring the National Assembly would step in to handle legislative duties during the state of emergency.

“We’ve also suggested that if the factions in Rivers State can resolve their differences sooner rather than later, the President should cut the emergency period short,” Agbese added. This shows the House’s flexibility and commitment to finding a swift resolution to the conflict.

Confidence in Leadership

Agbese was quick to praise President Tinubu, expressing full confidence in his dedication to protecting democratic institutions. “We know President Tinubu very well. He’s a democrat, and he’s fought hard for the principles of democracy in Nigeria,” Agbese said. He was optimistic that if the situation in Rivers State improves within six months, the President will act swiftly to end the state of emergency and restore normalcy.

To further address the crisis, Agbese announced the formation of a tripartite committee. This group will include respected Nigerians, members of Parliament, and members of the Executive Council. Their mission? To facilitate dialogue and break the political deadlock in Rivers State.

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Addressing the Critics

Agbese didn’t hold back when it came to the source of these bribery allegations. He accused “fifth columnists” and opposition elements of trying to smear the House’s reputation. He urged Nigerians to stand by the House, assuring them that all actions are taken with the people’s best interests in mind.

On the issue of quorum, Agbese confirmed that the House had more than enough members present during the emergency resolution vote. With 243 members in attendance, they comfortably met the required quorum.

Finally, Agbese expressed hope that, by the end of the state of emergency, both the Rivers State Government and Assembly will emerge stronger. This, he believes, will contribute positively to the state’s overall progress. So, there you have it—a clear, strong defense from the House of Representatives. Let’s see where things go from here.