1st August, 2016
Gbajabiamila, who was responding to insinuations being made that he was behind the embattled former appropriation chairman, warned the public not to judge him on the controversy surrounding the issue of budget padding.
“This text message, which desperately seeks to finger me in some macabre plot to destabilize the House is a throw back and echoes our dark post speakership election history. The resurfacing or resurgence of the faceless text messengers will not help us as a House.. Since the budget controversy that engulfed the House about a week ago, I have pointedly maintained a dignified silence.
“I did this for the sake of the institution I represent and which I have laboured hard to grow and protect, knowing that whatever I say could be impactful both within the House and outside it,” he said.
He maintained that he was determined to keep in place the glue that held an otherwise fragmented House, protect its integrity and at the same time, avoid eroding the little confidence and vestiges of hope “Nigerians have in us.”
“Unfortunately, the controversy has now taken a different turn following the rather strange if not comical text making the rounds among members about my complicity in this rather sordid matter. I am being dragged into an arena I tried very hard to stay out of only for the good of the House.
“On the budget issue at hand, it is clear that our budget process needs radical reform and very quickly too. Yes, allegations have been made but I strongly believe judgment should not be passed based on allegations.
“We operate a constitutional democracy and we must at all times submit to its dictates and ethos. All parties are innocent until otherwise proven. This should be our guide. I plead with all members. The mudslinging must stop.
“My strongest critics and biggest political adversaries in the House cannot deny the fact that my commitment has always been to strengthen the legislature and its processes and our democracy as a whole.
“I consider everyone a friend and colleague and urge that as we collectively work towards a stronger legislature and strive to deepen our democracy, we do not pull back the hands of the clock nor lose sight of the enormous responsibility placed upon us by providence as members of a critical arm of government,” he stated.