Rivers State of Emergency: Akpabio accused of influencing senators with $15,000

DDM News

The political situation in Rivers State has become increasingly tense, prompting discussions on the possibility of declaring a state of emergency.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) revealed that the crisis stems from political rivalries and governance issues that have divided key stakeholders, causing instability within the state’s leadership.

As tensions escalated, the National Assembly deliberated on the matter and voted unanimously in favor of the emergency proclamation.

Shortly after the vote, allegations surfaced that Senate President Godswill Akpabio facilitated financial inducements to secure senators’ support.

Reports claimed that senators received a total of $15,000, split into two disbursements, before the crucial vote on Thursday.

According to these claims, $5,000 was allegedly distributed on Tuesday, followed by another $10,000 on Wednesday evening.

The alleged payments were said to have taken place at Akpabio’s Maitama residence in Abuja during a breaking of fast event.

Social media platforms were flooded with accusations that Akpabio used financial incentives to manipulate the outcome of the vote.

The allegations sparked outrage among political observers, who questioned the transparency of the decision-making process.

Akpabio denies allegations, calls it a hate campaign

In response to the growing controversy, Akpabio dismissed the bribery allegations as baseless and politically motivated.

Speaking through his Special Adviser on Media, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, he denied any involvement in offering money to senators.

He described the accusations as part of a coordinated hate campaign aimed at damaging his reputation and political career.

Akpabio clarified that he has regularly hosted breaking of fast events since assuming office as Senate President.

He emphasized that this was not the first time he had invited senators for such gatherings.

He questioned why this year’s event was suddenly being linked to bribery and corruption allegations.

“I am aware that Senator Godswill Akpabio has been hosting breaking of fast events since assuming office,” Eyiboh stated.

“He did it last year, and he did it again this year, so why is it now turning into a scandal?”

He further challenged the credibility of the reports, questioning the logic behind the bribery accusations.

“On the issue of the dollars, he is giving the money for what?” Eyiboh asked.

“I am aware of the breaking of the fast, but I can tell you that no money was distributed.”

He insisted that there was no truth to claims that Akpabio handed out $5,000 or $10,000 to senators.

He accused detractors of fabricating the story to fuel political attacks and tarnish Akpabio’s leadership.

Senate’s decision on Rivers State amid controversy

Despite the allegations, both the Senate and the House of Representatives proceeded with voting on the state of emergency.

The proclamation was passed with a unanimous voice vote on Thursday, sealing the decision to impose emergency measures in Rivers State.

The controversy surrounding Akpabio added another layer of tension to an already volatile political situation.

Many observers have raised concerns over the role of money in legislative processes and decision-making.

The bribery allegations have sparked intense public debate, with some demanding further investigations into the matter.

Akpabio’s strong denial has not silenced critics, as opposition voices continue to question the circumstances surrounding the vote.

Political analysts believe the controversy could have far-reaching implications for Akpabio’s leadership and the Senate’s integrity.

The situation remains fluid, with different factions pushing their narratives to shape public perception.

Some believe the accusations are part of a broader strategy to weaken Akpabio’s influence in the Senate.

Others argue that the allegations reflect deeper issues of corruption in Nigerian politics.

For now, the Senate President maintains that the allegations are false and driven by political enemies.

The accusations continue to spread, fueling discussions about corruption and the influence of money in Nigerian politics.

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