Sixty-one opposition lawmakers in Nigeria’s House of Representatives have endorsed Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere as the new Minority Leader. The move follows the defection of former Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The lawmakers, representing 75% of the 81-member opposition bloc, submitted a signed nomination to Speaker Abbas Tajudeen. The document cites Ugochinyere’s legislative record and ability to unite the minority caucus. Sources say the nomination aligns with Order 7, Rule 7 of the House Standing Orders, which empowers opposition members to choose their leadership.
However, the endorsement faces resistance. Critics argue Ugochinyere’s party, the Action People’s Party (APP), holds only two seats in the House. Others insist the position should go to the South-South zone, which previously held the role under Chinda. Bayelsa lawmaker Frederick Agbedi, chairman of the PDP South-South caucus, remains a contender.
The opposition bloc comprises 10 parties, including the New Democratic Congress (NDC) with 24 members and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) with 15. Consultations are ongoing for the Deputy Minority Leader, Minority Whip, and Deputy Minority Whip positions. One slot has been reserved for an NDC lawmaker from the North-West.
Speaker Tajudeen is expected to meet the minority caucus today. The decision will shape opposition dynamics ahead of the 2027 elections. Ugochinyere, a vocal critic of the government, has sponsored over 40 bills and motions since 2023.
