A contentious session unfolded in the Nigerian House of Representatives on Thursday, sparked by lawmaker Philip Agbese, who represents the Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo federal constituency. Agbese vehemently denied endorsing Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere for the position of minority leader, asserting that his signature had been forged on a document purporting his nomination of Ugochinyere.

During plenary, Agbese raised a point of privilege, informing the House that he became aware of a document circulating online bearing his name, seemingly nominating a member for the minority leader role. He clarified that while he had engaged in discussions with Honourable Ikenga Ugochinyere and other colleagues, these conversations were centered on the welfare of minority members and the executive's adherence to constituency project issues, not endorsements. Agbese expressed his dismay, stating his legislative privilege had been breached and calling the act a clear case of forgery. He, a member of the Labour Party (LP), formally requested the House to investigate the matter and prevent any further misuse of his signature for such purposes. Furthermore, Agbese implored the House to stop Ugochinyere, his team, agents, or any representatives from further maligning his name, citing social media reports alleging that lawmakers had received $50,000 to endorse Ugochinyere.

In response, Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, urged members to cease further debate on the floor, characterizing it as an internal