Chairman of the House Committee on Downstream Petroleum, Rep. Ikenga Ugochinyere, has denied accusations of paying $1.7 million to House leadership to secure his position.
The lawmaker labeled the allegations as “false, nonsensical, and childish,” designed to distract from the widespread corruption in the oil sector.
He expressed his support for the Speaker’s decision to dissolve the joint committee investigating the oil industry’s challenges, affirming his trust in the Speaker’s judgment.
He emphasized his dedication to transparency and reform, pledging to advocate for accountability within the oil sector.
Ugochinyere commended the Speaker and Deputy Speaker for their inclusive leadership, which has ensured stability in the House, dismissing the bribery claims as a “smear campaign” orchestrated by corrupt individuals attempting to evade justice.
He reaffirmed his commitment to fighting for good governance, remaining undeterred by the accusations against him and the House leadership. He warned that those involved in spreading these falsehoods would face legal consequences.
The lawmaker expressed confidence in the Speaker’s decision to dissolve the joint committee and potentially establish an ad-hoc committee for the investigation, stating his agreement with any measure deemed best by the Speaker.
Ugochinyere said, “The allegation is a belated nonsensical, childish and unprofessional fiction work aimed at creating division in the House to aide some criminal elements who are long over due for prison to think they can escape justice which is impossible as the demand for transparency and reform is a task that will be pushed.
“Only a childish mind will believe the poorly scripted work that Speaker was given 1.7m dollars for something that those not worth a penny. We will not dignify the cheap attempt to distract and divert attention from the House investigation on the corruption from our Oil industry.
“Hon. Tajudeen Abbas and Deputy Speaker Hon. Benjamin Kalu’s all-inclusive administration style has kept the 10th House stable in the last one year. Their approach to governance has played a pivotal role in fostering a sense of inclusivity within the parliament. They embraced a collaborative approach that transcends party lines, fostering an environment where all voices are not only heard but also valued.
“So we are not bothered by the disjointed attacks and smear campaign against our Hon. Speaker, and the House leadership. These are efforts of unprofessional corrupt elements to pollute the media space in a desperate bid to seek cover from the inevitable that is coming. I remain focused in my fight for good governance.”
