Ikenga Ugochinyere, who represents Ideato North and South Federal Constituency of Imo State in the House of Representatives, refuted accusations of offering $1.7 million to Speaker Tajudeen Abass in exchange for a committee chairmanship position.
In a statement released in Abuja on Wednesday by his Chief of Staff, Ernest Njesi, Ugochinyere, who heads the House Committee on Downstream Petroleum, dismissed the claim as baseless and intended to sow discord within the House.
According to the lawmaker, the allegation is deemed “childish” and serves as a tactic to disrupt unity in the House rather than a legitimate concern.
Ugochinyere emphasized, “The allegation is a belated nonsensical, childish, and unprofessional fabrication designed to create rifts within the House and benefit certain individuals with questionable intentions.”
“Only a naive mind would entertain the poorly concocted notion that the Speaker received $1.7m for what is essentially of insignificant value. We refuse to engage in this futile attempt to divert attention from the House’s investigation into corruption within the oil industry.”
Despite this, the statement commended the Speaker and Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, for their inclusive leadership that has maintained stability within the 10th House for the past year.
It highlighted their governance approach that promotes inclusivity, transcending party lines and creating an environment where diverse opinions are not just acknowledged but cherished.
The lawmaker from Imo State remained resolute in his commitment to good governance, undeterred by what he labeled as “incoherent attacks and smear campaigns.”
Furthermore, the statement warned that those involved in spreading false narratives would face legal consequences, and Ugochinyere intends to seek compensation for damages incurred due to such defamation.