Proceedings at the House of Representatives on Thursday witnessed tense moments after a disagreement over an alleged endorsement document for the position of Minority Leader triggered heated exchanges among lawmakers.
The controversy began after the Deputy Spokesperson of the House, Philip Agbese, raised concerns over a document circulating online which reportedly contained signatures of opposition lawmakers backing the emergence of Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere for the Minority Leader position.
Reports had suggested that members of the Minority Caucus endorsed Ugochinyere’s candidature through a signed list. Agbese’s name was also reportedly included among those listed as supporters.
Raising the issue under a matter of personal privilege during plenary, Agbese denied supporting the nomination and stated that he never gave consent for his name or signature to appear on the document.
According to him, while he had previously engaged in discussions with different lawmakers, including Ugochinyere, those interactions were focused on matters relating to the welfare of lawmakers and concerns surrounding constituency projects.
He maintained that his discussions with colleagues should not be interpreted as an endorsement for any leadership position.
Agbese also dismissed online allegations suggesting that lawmakers involved in the endorsement exercise received financial inducements in exchange for their support.
He stated that he neither signed any endorsement document nor received money from any individual, insisting that his integrity and reputation should not be drawn into controversies based on claims he considered false.
The lawmaker expressed concern that the issue had generated calls and questions from his constituents, adding that he wanted the House to investigate the matter and protect his rights as a serving member.
He reportedly informed the House that he would submit relevant documents and materials for further examination.
Responding to the concerns raised, Speaker of the House, Abbas Tajudeen, acknowledged the matter and indicated that the House would address it appropriately.
However, the situation became more dramatic shortly after the Speaker’s remarks when Ugochinyere sought an opportunity to provide his own explanation regarding the allegations.
Speaking before lawmakers, Ugochinyere rejected suggestions of wrongdoing and maintained that there was no case of forgery concerning the endorsement process.
He argued that Agbese had been involved in discussions concerning the matter and insisted that the process leading to his endorsement by members of the Minority Caucus followed proper procedures.
The lawmaker further stated that he would provide evidence and witnesses to support his position.
As Ugochinyere continued his explanation, Agbese interrupted the proceedings, strongly restating his denial. The disagreement quickly escalated, with members across the chamber reacting loudly and engaging in verbal exchanges.
The atmosphere inside the chamber became increasingly tense as lawmakers openly expressed differing opinions, resulting in a rowdy session that briefly disrupted proceedings.
The incident highlights the growing political activities and internal maneuvering taking place within legislative circles as political actors continue positioning themselves ahead of future developments within the National Assembly.
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