SaharaReporters has uncovered a shocking revelation that Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s guest house was the venue for a massive payout to senators to secure their support for President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
According to sources, 42 senators received $10,000 each on Wednesday night, while 45 senators were given $5,000 each on Tuesday night. The payout was allegedly organized by Senator Victor Umeh and Senator Neda Imasuen of the Labour Party.
“They were the only Labour Party senators present at both events on Tuesday and Wednesday nights and participated in collecting the money,” one of the sources revealed.
The sources also claimed that Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, provided funds to Akpabio to rally senators in support of the emergency rule. “Wike allegedly provided money for Akpabio as they met yesterday after Tinubu told him to do the groundwork for the State of Emergency. Over $3 million was provided when Wike met Akpabio,” one of the sources said.
The Senate eventually approved the President’s proclamation, with Akpabio announcing unanimous approval after a closed-door session. The House of Representatives also convened to address the President’s declaration, resulting in a voice vote that overwhelmingly supported the state of emergency.
The National Assembly’s endorsement effectively activated the state of emergency in Rivers State, granting the federal government authority to intervene and address the underlying issues affecting the region.