Senate President Godswill Akpabio has dismissed allegations that senators received a $15,000 bribe to support the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. He called the accusations false and part of a “hate campaign” against him.
For days, social media has been buzzing with reports that Akpabio distributed the money in dollars at his Maitama residence. According to these rumors, each senator allegedly received $5,000 on Tuesday and an additional $10,000 on Wednesday, just before the vote on the emergency declaration.
However, Akpabio’s media adviser, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, debunked the allegations, insisting the reports were entirely fabricated.
Breaking Fast, Not Distributing Cash
Eyiboh explained that the Senate President has been hosting Ramadan breaking-of-fast gatherings, just as he did last year.
“I am aware and it is true that since Senator Godswill Akpabio assumed office, he has been breaking fast. He did it last year, he did it this year, so why is it turning into a rumour?” Eyiboh said.
He questioned the logic behind the bribery claim, saying, “On the issue of the dollars, he is giving the money for what? I am aware of the breaking of the fast but I can tell you I am not aware and it is not true about the dollars, whether $5,000 or $10,000. People are just conjuring it to add flavour to their malice and hate campaign.”
Eyiboh insisted that the Senate President had no reason to distribute money to lawmakers. “He has been hosting these gatherings since last year, so why is this one suddenly associated with money?” he asked.
Unanimously Support?
On Thursday, both the Senate and the House of Representatives passed the motion declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State. The decision was reached through a voice vote, which angered many legal experts and political activists.
The Nigerian constitution required a two-third vote approval which could not be ascertained by a chorus voice vote.
The alleged bribery claim has stirred controversy, with critics questioning the motive behind the emergency declaration.
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