The chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere, dismissed allegations that he paid $1.7 million to secure chairmanship of the committee as a ploy to divert attention from alleged corruption in the oil industry
Ugochinyere, in a statement by his Chief of Staff, Ernest Njesi, on Wednesday, said the allegation was fabricated by individuals with vested interest in the oil industry.
The House had on Monday relieved the Joint Committee on Petroleum Resources ( Downstream) headed by Ugochinyere and the Petroleum Resources ( Midstream) headed by Henry Okojie, of the task of investigating alleged Premium Motor Spirit ( PMS) racketeering and other infractions in the oil industry. Nonetheless, no reason was given for the action.
Regardless, Ugochinyere says he agrees with the decision of the House leadership to dissolve the joint Committee and appoint an Ad-hoc Committee to undertake the probe.
“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, ” the lawmaker stated.
