Representing Ilorin West and Asa Federal Constituency in Kwara State, Tolani Shagaya, a member of the House of Representatives, has distanced himself from a controversial publication linked to a group known as “1 AGENDA.”
In a statement released on Monday in Abuja, Shagaya clarified his position on the matter.
The publication titled “NNPCL: A Call for Caution” included Shagaya among 120 lawmakers supposedly in support of the statement.
Recently, members from “1 AGENDA” issued a statement urging the resignation of Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, and Ahmed Farouk, the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority.
However, Shagaya firmly rebutted the claims stating, “I want to make it clear that I have no affiliation with this coalition or any prior knowledge of it until the publication of this statement.
“I did not endorse any statement, nor was I approached or informed about it. Inclusion of my name, listed as number 62 among the alleged supporters, is unauthorized and misleading.”
Highlighting the significance of fair process and proper hearings, Shagaya emphasized the need for thorough examination especially regarding issues involving the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority.
“The House of Representatives is constitutionally bound to investigate complaints and issues before making any decisions, and I fully support this process”, he added.
In light of potential misunderstandings, Shagaya pointed out, “Not speaking up on matters like these can be misconstrued as agreement, which is why I feel compelled to speak out.
“I urge the public to disregard any connection between myself and the ‘1 AGENDA’ statement.”
In his statement, Shagaya also urged “1 AGENDA” to retract the publication and publicly apologize for the unauthorized use of his name, stating, “Such actions undermine the integrity of the legislative process and mislead the public.”
Shagaya reaffirmed his dedication to his constituents and the core principles of transparency, accountability, and proper procedure in legislative affairs.
As the Deputy Chairman of the Committee on Basic Education & Services, he pledged to continue advocating for fairness and transparency in all governmental activities.