The member of the House of Representatives, representing Ideato Federal Constituency of Imo State, Ikenga Ugochinyere has said allegations that he gave the leadership the sum of $1.7 million to be made chairman of the Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream) as diversionary.
Ugochinyere, in a statement by his Chief of Staff, Ernest Njesi,said the allegations is a ploy by some persons to divert attention from the impending probe of the petroleum industry by the parliament. The lawmaker, who reiterated his commitment to good governance, expressed support for the recent dissolution of the panel mandated to probe allegations of wrong doing in the petroleum industry.
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.
“Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas and Deputy Speaker Rt 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.”
