The House of Representatives was thrown into a rowdy session on Thursday following allegations by Deputy House Spokesperson Philip Agbese that his signature was forged on a document endorsing Ikenga Ugochinyere for the position of Minority Leader.
The controversy stems from a list circulating online containing the names and signatures of 61 opposition lawmakers said to have backed Ugochinyere, a member of the Action People’s Party (APP), for the minority leadership position.
Agbese’s name and signature appeared on the document.
The dispute was further fueled by a report published by an online newspaper alleging that each of the 61 lawmakers received $50,000 in exchange for endorsing Ugochinyere.
Raising a matter of personal privilege on the floor of the House, Agbese denied signing the document or receiving any money, describing the use of his name and signature as a breach of his legislative privileges.
He said his discussions with Ugochinyere were limited to issues affecting minority lawmakers, including members’ welfare and concerns over constituency projects.
Agbese insisted that he had not authorised anyone to append his signature to any endorsement document and described the incident as an act of forgery.
He also informed the House that he would submit both the disputed document and the online publication for investigation.
Minority Leadership: Reps In Rowdy Session As Agbese Alleges Forgery of Signature
The House of Representatives, on Thursday, was thrown into rowdy session, following the disclosure by the Deputy Spokesperson, Hon. Philip Agbese, that his signature was forged on the circulated… pic.twitter.com/IP357ubwkL
— Prime Reporters News (@PrimeReportersn) June 4, 2026
In his ruling, Speaker Abbas Tajudeen acknowledged the complaint and assured lawmakers that the matter would be addressed appropriately.
However, shortly after the ruling, Ugochinyere rose on a point of personal explanation to challenge Agbese’s claims.
He maintained that Agbese had personally signed the endorsement document in his office after a caucus meeting at which he was selected by a majority of minority lawmakers.
Ugochinyere said he was prepared to provide evidence and witnesses to support his position and dismissed allegations of forgery.
His remarks sparked a heated exchange on the House floor, with Agbese repeatedly interrupting to deny the claim.
The disagreement quickly escalated into a shouting match, as lawmakers stood and exchanged words across the chamber.
After several minutes of disorder, Speaker Tajudeen restored calm and reminded members that a Minority Caucus meeting had already been scheduled for 2 p.m., where the matter could be further discussed.
Before proceedings moved on, Solomon Bob, representing Rivers State, cited House Rule 7(15), arguing that only experienced lawmakers are eligible to serve as principal officers of the House.
Rowdy session as Agbese denies backing Ugochinyere for minority leader, says signature forged
The House of Representatives was thrown into a rowdy session on Thursday following a heated dispute over the nomination process for the position of Minority Leader.
Philip Agbese, the… pic.twitter.com/o8zHauuboO
— Nigerian NewsDirect (@NigNewsDirect) June 4, 2026
