Reps Clash Over Alleged Forged Signature in Minority Leader Contest as House Leadership Crisis Deepens

A fresh political crisis has rocked the Nigerian House of Representatives following allegations of forgery in the race to replace the minority leadership position.

Rep. Philip Agbese accused allies of Rep. Ikenga Ugochinyere of forging his signature on a nomination form connected to the selection of a new minority leader following the defection of Kingsley Chinda to the ruling party.

Agbese insisted that his signature was falsified without his consent, describing the development as a serious breach of parliamentary ethics and internal party procedures.

However, Rep. Ikenga Ugochinyere countered the allegation, maintaining that Agbese personally signed the document in his office in the presence of witnesses, dismissing the forgery claim as false and politically motivated.

The disagreement quickly escalated into a shouting match on the floor of the House, forcing the Speaker to intervene and restore order. Lawmakers have now scheduled a caucus meeting to resolve the dispute.

The controversy underscores growing tensions within the opposition ranks over zonal representation and the leadership structure of the minority caucus, especially in the aftermath of recent defections that have weakened internal cohesion.

Despite the heated exchanges, no final resolution has been reached, as consultations continue among the 81-member opposition bloc in the chamber.

Observers note that the development reflects broader struggles over influence, loyalty, and control within Nigeria’s evolving legislative landscape.