Reps minority crisis: Agbese rejects Ugochinyere's claim, says no valid nomination exists

June 7, 2026

By Gift ChapiOdekina, Abuja

The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese, has dismissed claims that Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere has emerged as the Minority Leader of the House, insisting that no valid nomination has been completed in line with parliamentary procedures.

Agbese, who represents Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue State, stated this in a rebuttal issued on Sunday amid the controversy surrounding the endorsement of Ugochinyere by 61 opposition lawmakers following the resignation of former Minority Leader, Hon. Kingsley Chinda, after his defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

According to Agbese, the position of Minority Leader cannot be filled solely through the endorsement of a majority of opposition lawmakers, arguing that a caucus of legislators lacks the authority to alter or circumvent the Standing Orders of the House.