Tempers flared in the House of Representatives on Thursday as a fierce disagreement over the leadership of the opposition caucus degenerated into a rowdy session, with lawmakers trading accusations of forgery, blackmail and political manipulation on the floor of the chamber.
The heated exchange, which disrupted plenary, was triggered by a complaint from Philip Agbese (Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue State), who accused fellow lawmaker Ikenga Ugochinyere (Ideato North/Ideato South, Imo State) of forging his signature to endorse a nomination for the position of Minority Leader.
Ugochinyere, however, dismissed the allegation as false, insisting the endorsement process was legitimate and duly signed by supporting lawmakers.
The confrontation quickly escalated into a shouting match between rival camps within the opposition bloc.
A video later released by members of the G-60 caucus further intensified the controversy, as it reportedly showed Agbese signing the nomination document, contrary to his claim on the floor of the House.
