The House of Representatives descended into chaos on Thursday, June 4, 2026, as lawmakers fiercely contested the minority leader position following the resignation of Kingsley Chinda. Chinda stepped down after defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), having emerged as the APC governorship candidate in Rivers State.
Agbese Alleges Forgery in Endorsement Document
Philip Agbese, a Labour Party (LP) lawmaker from Benue State, accused his colleagues of forging his signature to endorse Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere for minority leader. Agbese stated that a document circulating online falsely listed him among supporters of Ugochinyere's bid. He clarified that his previous discussion with Ugochinyere centered on constituency projects, not leadership ambitions.
Agbese called on the House leadership to investigate the matter and prevent further misuse of his name. He further inflamed tensions by alleging that reports claimed lawmakers received $50,000 each to support Ugochinyere's emergence.
Speaker's Intervention Fails to Restore Order
Speaker Tajudeen Abbas attempted to calm the lawmakers but failed. Ugochinyere rose to reject the allegations, calling them false and defamatory. The Imo lawmaker insisted he could produce witnesses who saw the endorsement being signed and accused Agbese of attempting to damage his reputation.
Agbese maintained that he neither attended the purported meeting nor signed any document. The exchange sparked shouting and protests, forcing Abbas to spend over 15 minutes restoring order before proceedings could continue.
Background on the Lawmakers
Ugochinyere represents Ideato Federal Constituency in Imo State, while Agbese represents Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency in Benue State. Agbese recently secured the Labour Party ticket for the 2027 elections after winning the direct primary with over 52,000 votes.
Broader Political Context
The defection of Kingsley Chinda and six Oyo lawmakers from the PDP to the APC and Allied Peoples Movement, respectively, reflects a surge in cross-party movements reshaping the House dynamics. These shifts are strengthening the opposition's foothold ahead of the 2027 elections.
