🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Nigerian lawmakers clash over minority leader forgery allegations
via Punch Nigeria5 min read
A heated confrontation erupted in the Nigerian House of Representatives during a session on Thursday, stemming from a dispute over the leadership of the opposition caucus. Mr. Philip Agbese, representing Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency, accused fellow lawmaker Ikenga Ugochinyere, representing Ideato North/Ideato South Federal Constituency, of forging his signature on a document purportedly nominating Ugochinyere for the position of Minority Leader. Agbese stated he never signed such a document, despite discussions with Ugochinyere, and called for an investigation into what he described as an attempt to damage his reputation. He also denied receiving money to support any candidate. Speaker Abbas Tajudeen acknowledged the complaint and assured an investigation, while also announcing a closed-door meeting for minority lawmakers to address the leadership crisis. Ugochinyere, in turn, denied the forgery, claiming Agbese personally endorsed his nomination form in front of witnesses and that his bid has overwhelming support from opposition members. The exchange led to a shouting match in the chamber, highlighting deep divisions within the opposition bloc. This confrontation occurs amid uncertainty in the opposition caucus following political shifts and the defection of the former Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda. The outcome of the Speaker's meeting is expected to be crucial in determining the future leadership of the minority caucus.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Afrobeats artist Davido has condemned an attack on Asimiyu Ajibola, chairman of the Accord Party in Osogbo Local Government Area of Osun State. Ajibola reportedly escaped death after suspected gunmen attacked him and his associates on Wednesday night in Osogbo. The incident occurred near the Osogbo Community Bank axis of the MDS area when gunmen allegedly opened fire on a blue Toyota Corolla carrying the politician and his friends. Ajibola sustained injuries and was taken to a teaching hospital. Davido called for an end to political violence, emphasizing that political differences should not lead to insecurity or bloodshed. He urged politicians to resolve their differences through the ballot box, stating, "Regardless of our political differences, everyone must make sure they are not contributing to insecurity in our nation." He added, "The attack on the Chairman of the Accord Party in Osogbo Local Government by political hoodlums must be condemned and rejected by all."
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The National Association of Nigerian Students NANS has reaffirmed its commitment to the rescue of abducted students and teachers across Nigeria, declaring support for advocacy efforts by the Nigeria Labour Congress NLC and the Nigeria Union of Teachers NUT. NANS President, Akinteye Babatunde, stated on Thursday in Abuja that the student body remains focused on ensuring the freedom of all abducted individuals and will continue to engage relevant authorities and mobilize support for their rescue. Akinteye emphasized that the safety of students and teachers must be a national priority, warning that insecurity could undermine access to education if not addressed urgently. He added that NANS will work with labor unions, parents, community leaders, and security agencies to pressure the government until the abductees are rescued. While commending the NLC and NUT for their advocacy, Akinteye stressed that NANS's primary concern is the welfare of the victims, not political considerations. He distanced the association from politically affiliated groups, insisting that the campaign for rescue should not be used for partisan interests. Akinteye also dismissed reports questioning his studentship status, reiterating that he is a bona fide student of Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology. He urged media organizations to verify information to avoid distracting from the urgent task of addressing insecurity in schools. The statement follows heightened concerns over school securit
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