A Member of the House of Representatives for Ideato North and South Federal Constituency of Imo State, and an anti-corruption crusader, Ikenga Ugochinyere,has denied allegations that he bribed the Speaker of House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas with $1.7 million to secure his position as House Committee Chairman on Downstream Petroleum.
Ugochinyere described the claims as absurd fabrications by “scared oil thieves and their errand agents” aimed at diverting attention from deep-seated corruption in Nigeria’s oil sector.
In a statement released by his Chief of Staff, Ernest Njesi, and.made available to PLATFORM TIMES on Wednesday, Ugochinyere asserted that the accusations were as believable as a poorly scripted Hollywood movie.
He emphasised that such claims were concocted by individuals with vested interests in the oil industry, who fear the ongoing push for transparency and efficiency.
“It’s only a stupid and childish mind that can believe that I gave the Speaker 1.7 million dollars,” Ugochinyere declared.
“This is a nonsensical and belated attempt to provoke and divert attention from the endemic corruption in the oil and gas industry.”
He further expressed unwavering support for Speaker Abbas and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, commending their leadership and commitment to transparency.
Ugochinyere noted that the administration’s inclusive approach had fostered stability within the House, making it resilient against smear campaigns.
“The disjointed attacks and smear campaigns from oil thieves can’t break my confidence in the inclusive and stable leadership that Abbas and Kalu have provided,” Ugochinyere said.
“Their all-inclusive administration style has kept the 10th House stable and fostered an environment where all voices are heard and valued.”
Ugochinyere also welcomed the Speaker’s decision to reconstitute the joint committee investigating the oil sector’s challenges.
He stressed that the investigation would uncover the corruption and inefficiencies plaguing the industry, ensuring that those responsible would face justice.
“The Speaker’s action is in the best interest of the House to get to the root of the desire for transparency and efficiency,” Ugochinyere stated.
“Those who are scared even before the investigation starts should know that there is no escape route.”
He concluded by warning those spreading false allegations that they would face legal consequences. Ugochinyere reaffirmed his commitment to fighting for good governance and not being distracted by what he called “childish and unprofessional fiction work.”
“We will not dignify the cheap attempts to distract and divert attention from the House investigation of the corruption in our oil industry,” he said. “I remain focused in my fight for good governance.”
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