By Oluwakemi Kindness
Sixty-one out of 81 opposition lawmakers in the House of Representatives have formally nominated Ikenga Imo-Ugochinyere as Minority Leader designate, with their resolution already submitted to the Speaker for official announcement.
The endorsement of Ugochinyere, who is the Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum (Downstream) and represents Ideato North/Ideato South Federal Constituency of Imo State, was contained in a letter dated June 3, 2026, and addressed to Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.
The lawmakers, drawn from ADC, NDC, APP, PRP, LP, APGA, APM, SDP and ACCORD, said the decision was reached internally in line with Order 7, Rule 7 of the House Standing Orders, which empowers minority members to elect their leadership subject to formal confirmation by the presiding officer.
They explained that the nomination reflects a majority consensus within the opposition bloc and expressed confidence that the Speaker will formally announce the decision in accordance with parliamentary tradition.
Supporters of the nomination cited Ugochinyere’s legislative record, including sponsorship of over 40 bills, motions and petitions within his current term, as well as his previous service as Senior Special Adviser to the Senate President, which they said demonstrates capacity for coordination and legislative leadership.
The lawmakers further stated that consultations are ongoing to fill other minority leadership positions, including Minority Whip and Deputy Minority Leader, with final names expected to be transmitted to the Speaker shortly after harmonisation.
They also referenced past parliamentary precedents where leadership positions were determined by internal caucus majority decisions rather than zoning arrangements.
The list of the 61 endorsing lawmakers has been submitted alongside the nomination to the House leadership, awaiting formal announcement.
